Erb’s Palsy Group

The Erb’s Palsy Group is an international, non-profit, self-help organization dedicated to providing support and information to families in England and North and South Ireland who are affected by Erb’s palsy. Erb’s palsy is a paralysis of the shoulder and upper extremity that is most commonly seen in newborns. This disorder is characterized by an abnormal positioning (adduction) and internal turning of the shoulder with a rotation of the forearm. This type of nerve injury may be caused by abnormal stretching of the shoulder during a difficult labor, a delivery where the buttocks present first (breech), or excessive sideways movement of the neck during delivery. Founded in 1992, the Erb’s Palsy Group publishes a self-titled newsletter and distributes several informational brochures and fact sheets. Titles include «Obstetrical Erb’s Palsy,»»Nerve Grafts,» and «Shoulder Release.» A series of brochures geared to educators is also available. The group also provides guidelines for starting and maintaining local support groups.