Did excessive force cause Erb’s palsy?

Article

A New York woman delivered her child at a hospital in 2002. After the delivery, the mother noticed the infant’s right arm was angulated and not moving. The infant was subsequently diagnosed with Erb’s palsy.

A New York woman delivered her child at a hospital in 2002. After the delivery, the mother noticed the infant’s right arm was angulated and not moving. The infant was subsequently diagnosed with Erb’s palsy.

The woman sued, alleging negligence in the management of a shoulder dystocia and claiming unnecessary force and traction was used during the delivery. The matter was ultimately pursued against the delivering physician only.

The obstetrician contended that no excessive force was used and that the child made a good recovery. A $600,000 settlement was reached.

Newsletter

Get the latest clinical updates, case studies, and expert commentary in obstetric and gynecologic care. Sign up now to stay informed.

Recent Videos
Neal Barnard, MD, FACC, highlights AMA's new breast cancer prevention guidelines | Image Credit: pcrm.org.
Zachary Wagner, PhD, discusses the harms of bias in reproductive care | Image Credit: ornsife.usc.edu.
Ciera Kirkpatrick, PhD, shows how TikTok is transforming cervical cancer awareness | Image Credit: linkedin.com.
Maria Gallo, PhD, discusses high attendance at crisis pregnancy centers | Image Credit: © x.com.
Related Content
© 2025 MJH Life Sciences

All rights reserved.