Birth Brain Injuries and Occupational Therapy Treatment

Occupational therapy can be an effective method for brachial plexus injuries. In older children (1 and older) it is a little easier to have them participate in therapeutic activities. That may not be the case when dealing with an infant. You will have to work with therapists to learn how to properly move your infant’s arm to ensure it is not further damaged. There will also be exercises you should do at home with your child to benefit and improve their condition.

Different Types of Therapy Options

Therapists will help stretch and move your baby’s arm to:

Specific occupational therapy activities will include:

You should be taught exercises to do with your baby to ensure the joints move fluidly and work on motor development. All progress will be closely monitored for the status of recovery. Children not progressing according to schedule will be evaluated for surgical intervention. An evaluation will determine which treatment option will help your baby recover from their injury and may include:

If your child receives any of the surgical treatments, additional procedures may be required to enhance them as growth takes place. Muscle and tendon transfers will use healthy tissues to stimulate non-functioning muscles, and osteotomies involve cutting and repositioning bones. There are also procedures to release joints and muscles that are tight.