Brachial plexus injury

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Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors

When to seek medical advice Tests and diagnosis Treatments and drugs

Definition

A brachial plexus injury occurs when the nerves that connect your arm and spinal cord get stretched or torn. This usually happens when your shoulder is pressed down forcefully while your head is pushed up and away from that shoulder.

The brachial plexus is the network of nerves that travels from your neck and passes under your collarbone to serve your arm and hand. Injuries to these nerves are common in contact sports, especially football, but they can also result from auto accidents and falls. Babies sometimes sustain a brachial plexus injury during birth.

Minor injuries to the brachial plexus often resolve on their own within a few weeks, but some injuries can be so severe that they require surgical repair. In some cases, full function of the arm — especially the hand — can never be recovered.

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Symptoms