What is Brachial Plexopathy?

• Brachial plexopathy is a condition that affects the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that sends signals from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand
• It occurs when these nerves are stretched, compressed, or damaged, leading to pain, weakness, or loss of function in the upper limb

Types of Brachial Plexopathy

Traumatic Brachial Plexopathy

• Caused by physical injury such as car accidents, falls, or sports injuries

Parsonage-Turner Syndrome (Neuralgic Amyotrophy)

• A rare, sudden-onset condition causing severe shoulder pain followed by weakness

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

• Compression of the brachial plexus as it passes through the neck and shoulder area

Radiation-Induced Brachial Plexopathy

• Can occur after radiation therapy for cancers in the chest or neck

Causes of Brachial Plexopathy

• Trauma (e.g., vehicle accidents, sports injuries, birth injuries)
• Repetitive stress or overuse
• Tumors pressing on the nerve network
• Inflammation or autoimmune diseases
• Surgical complications
• Radiation treatment
• Diabetes or infections (less common causes)

Symptoms of Brachial Plexopathy

• Sharp or burning pain in the shoulder, arm, or hand
• Weakness or paralysis in the arm or hand
• Numbness or tingling
• Muscle atrophy over time
• Difficulty lifting objects or raising the arm
• Drooping shoulder in severe cases

How is Brachial Plexopathy Diagnosed?

• Physical exam to check strength, reflexes, and sensation
• MRI or CT scan to view nerve and tissue damage
• Nerve conduction studies to measure electrical activity in the muscles
• Electromyography (EMG) to assess muscle and nerve function
• Ultrasound in some cases for real-time nerve imaging

Treatment for Brachial Plexopathy

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
• Pain management with medications like NSAIDs or nerve pain relievers
• Steroid injections for inflammation
• Occupational therapy to help regain daily function
• Bracing or slings to support weakened areas

Surgical Treatments

• Surgery may be necessary if there is:
  • Severe nerve damage
  • Tumor or mass pressing on the nerve
  • Lack of improvement with conservative treatment
• Surgical options include nerve repair, nerve grafting, or nerve transfers

Recovery and Outlook

• Recovery depends on the severity and cause
• Some people recover fully with therapy and time
• Others may experience long-term weakness or nerve pain
• Early treatment improves the chance of better recovery

Complications of Brachial Plexopathy

• Permanent loss of arm or hand function
• Chronic pain or sensitivity
• Muscle wasting due to nerve damage
• Reduced quality of life from physical limitations

How to Prevent Brachial Plexopathy

• Use proper technique and protective gear in sports or physical activities
• Avoid repetitive overhead motion without breaks
• Maintain good posture, especially during work or long drives
• Manage chronic conditions like diabetes
• Get prompt treatment for neck or shoulder injuries

When to See a Doctor?

• Sudden or severe shoulder or arm pain
• Weakness or inability to move the arm or hand
• Numbness or tingling that doesn’t go away
• Symptoms following trauma, surgery, or radiation
• Worsening function despite rest or home care