Brachial Plexus Injury, Symptoms and Diagnosis
Brachial plexus injuries typically stem from trauma to the neck, and can cause pain, weakness and numbness in the arm and hand. Brachial plexus injuries often heal well if they aren't severe. Many people with minor brachial plexus injuries recover 90%–100% of the normal function of their arms. Read the article to know more.
Nivedita Dar24 Nov, 2024
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Brachial Plexus Injury - Injuries of the network of nerves in the upper limb and their signs. Brachial plexus plays a crucial innervation of both sensation and motor innervation of the upper arm. It’s a complex network of nerves originating from cervical spinal nerves. Spinal nerves are mixed in nature and they provide mixed innervation to the upper arm. Spinal nerves of different nerve roots of cervical region combine to make this plexus.
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Anatomy of the Brachial Plexus
The brachial plexus is formed by the anterior rami of the lower four cervical nerves (C5, C6, C7, C8) and the first thoracic nerve (T1). This network of nerves extends from the spinal cord, through the neck, over the first rib, and into the armpit, where it branches into the nerves of the arm. The brachial plexus is typically divided into five sections: roots, trunks, divisions, cords, and branches. 1.Roots: The brachial plexus begins with five roots, which are the anterior rami of C5 to T1. 2.Trunks: These roots combine to form three trunks:- Upper trunk (C5-C6)
- Middle trunk (C7)
- Lower trunk (C8-T1)
- Lateral cord (formed by the anterior divisions of the upper and middle trunks)
- Medial cord (formed by the anterior division of the lower trunk)
- Posterior cord (formed by the posterior divisions of all three trunks)
- Musculocutaneous nerve
- Axillary nerve
- Radial nerve
- Median nerve
- Ulnar nerve
Functions of the Brachial Plexus
The brachial plexus is responsible for the motor and sensory innervation of the upper limb. This includes: 1.Motor Functions: The nerves arising from the brachial plexus control the muscles of the shoulder, arm, forearm, and hand. This allows for a wide range of movements, from gross motor skills like lifting and throwing to fine motor skills like typing and writing. 2.Sensory Functions: These nerves also provide sensory innervation to the skin of the shoulder, arm, forearm, and hand, allowing for sensations such as touch, pain, temperature, and proprioception.Read More - Radiodiagnosis
Symptoms of Brachial Plexus Injuries
Symptoms of brachial plexus injuries vary depending on the severity and location of the injury but often include:- Weakness or inability to use certain muscles in the shoulder, arm, or hand.
- Numbness or loss of sensation in the affected limb.
- Pain, which can be severe in some cases.
- Muscle atrophy in chronic or severe injuries.
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Diagnosis
Diagnosis of brachial plexus injuries involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Key diagnostic tools include:- Electrodiagnostic Studies: Nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG) help assess the electrical activity in muscles and nerves.
- Imaging Studies: MRI and ultrasound can visualize the brachial plexus and identify structural abnormalities or injuries.
Brachial Plexus Injury FAQs
What is Obstetric Brachial Plexus Palsy?
This occurs in newborns due to trauma during birth, particularly in cases of shoulder dystocia. It can lead to varying degrees of paralysis in the affected arm.
What is Compression Injuries?
Prolonged pressure on the brachial plexus, such as from a poorly positioned crutch or a tumor, can lead to compression injuries. This may result in pain, numbness, and muscle weakness.
What is Radiation-Induced Brachial Plexopathy?
Patients who have received radiation therapy for cancers in the chest or neck region may develop brachial plexopathy months or years after treatment.
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