26/01/2025
Erb's Palsy vs Klumpke's Palsy
Erb's palsy and Klumpke's palsy are two types of brachial plexus injuries that occur during birth or trauma.
Erb's Palsy:
Location: Upper brachial plexus (C5-C6).
Injury: Typically occurs during delivery when the baby's shoulder is stretched or pulled.
Symptoms: Weakness or paralysis of the arm, shoulder, or elbow; decreased sensation; impaired reflexes.
Presentation: "Waiter's tip" hand, with the arm hanging limply and the forearm extended.
Klumpke's Palsy:
Location: Lower brachial plexus (C8-T1).
Injury: Typically occurs during delivery when the baby's arm is stretched or pulled.
Symptoms: Weakness or paralysis of the hand, wrist, or fingers; decreased sensation; impaired reflexes.
Presentation: Claw hand, with the fingers flexed and the wrist extended.
Key differences:
Location of injury:
Erb's palsy affects the upper brachial plexus, while Klumpke's palsy affects the lower brachial plexus.
Symptoms and presentation:
Erb's palsy typically presents with weakness or paralysis of the arm, shoulder, or elbow, while Klumpke's palsy presents with weakness or paralysis of the hand, wrist, or fingers.
Common Physiotherapy Goals:
1.Improve range of motion and mobility: Enhance movement patterns and reduce stiffness.
2. Strengthen affected muscles: Improve muscle strength and function.
3. Enhance functional abilities: Improve daily functioning, such as feeding, dressing, and playing.
4. Promote normal movement patterns: Encourage normal movement patterns and reduce compensatory movements.
Keep in mind that each child's needs and goals are unique, and physiotherapy programs should be tailored to their individual requirements.
Surgical Treatment: Tendon Transfer surgery
Best Surgeon for Erb's palsy and Klumpke Palsy:
Dr. Baqir Hussain
MBBS, FCPS Orthopedic, Fellowship Hand Surgery
Assistant Professor LRH, Peshawar
Consultant Orthopedic Hand Surgeon
