Understanding the condition
The brachial plexus is the network of nerves that carries signals between the spinal cord and the shoulder, arm and hand. An accident can stretch, rupture or, in severe cases, detach nerve roots. Injuries vary substantially in their severity and potential for recovery.
What might you notice?
- Weakness or loss of movement in the shoulder, arm or hand.
- Numbness, altered sensation or nerve pain following an injury.
- Difficulty with daily tasks after a shoulder dislocation, fracture or other trauma.
These symptoms can have more than one cause. A clinical assessment is needed to establish the diagnosis.
Specialist assessment
Assessment brings together the mechanism and timing of injury, a detailed examination and any previous records. MRI, ultrasound and nerve conduction studies or electromyography may be considered to clarify the injury and monitor recovery.
Your treatment options
Some injuries recover with observation and rehabilitation. Others may benefit from nerve repair, grafting or nerve transfers. Where nerve recovery is limited, tendon transfers and other reconstruction may help improve function. The choice and timing depend on the injury, examination findings and your goals.
Common questions
Will every brachial plexus injury need surgery?
No. The decision depends on the type of injury, evidence of recovery and the function affected. Rehabilitation and monitoring are important parts of care.
Can an old injury still be assessed?
Yes. Even when direct nerve reconstruction is no longer appropriate, a specialist may be able to discuss other ways to improve function or manage symptoms.
General patient information from London Nerve Injury. Decisions about investigations and treatment require an individual clinical assessment.