Erb's Palsy Claims

Brachial plexus nerve damage from excessive force during shoulder dystocia, causing permanent arm weakness or paralysis.

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£50,000 – £2,000,000

Typical compensation range

3 years

Limitation period

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Similar Past Cases

These are real erb's palsy claims cases with actual compensation outcomes. Your case could be similar.

England2021

Erb's Palsy: Excessive Traction During Delivery

A doctor used excessive traction during a shoulder dystocia delivery at an NHS hospital, permanently damaging the infant's brachial plexus nerve network. The baby was left with permanent Erb's palsy and limited use of the right arm. The trust admitted the delivery was mismanaged.

£1.8Msettlement

Erb's palsy claims focus on whether the medical team used appropriate manoeuvres during a difficult delivery, such as the McRoberts technique.

About Erb's Palsy Claims Claims

Erb's palsy claims arise when excessive traction or force during a difficult delivery damages the brachial plexus nerve network, causing weakness or paralysis of the baby's arm. This typically occurs during shoulder dystocia — when the baby's shoulder becomes stuck behind the mother's pubic bone.

The key question is whether the medical team used appropriate techniques to resolve the shoulder dystocia. The recommended sequence includes the McRoberts manoeuvre (repositioning the mother's legs), suprapubic pressure, delivery of the posterior arm, and internal rotation techniques. Excessive downward traction on the baby's head is considered improper management.

Risk factors that should have been identified and planned for include large baby (macrosomia), maternal diabetes, previous shoulder dystocia, and prolonged labour. Failure to plan for a known high-risk delivery strengthens the claim.

The severity of Erb's palsy varies. Temporary weakness that resolves within months may attract awards of £10,000 to £50,000. Permanent Erb's palsy with limited arm function typically settles for £100,000 to £500,000. Severe cases with total arm paralysis can reach £500,000 to £2 million. Microsurgery (nerve grafts) may be required. Claims can be brought until the child's 21st birthday.

Typical Compensation Range

£50Kto£2M

Based on reported settlements and court awards. Individual case values vary significantly.

Limitation Period

3 years

May vary by jurisdiction. Don't wait — time limits apply.

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