Early intervention in obstetric brachial palsy: a review/ Intervenção precoce na paralisia braquial obstetrica: uma revisão

Abstract

Obstetric brachial paralysis is the end of an injury to the nerve fibers of the brachial plexus during obstetric maneuvers during childbirth. The injury has a great impact on the functionality of the injured upper limb of the newborn. The signs and symptoms vary, depending on the location of the lesion. The early intervention of the physiotherapist in the rehabilitation process is essential to prevent complications and improve motor function. Physiotherapeutic treatment has a very important contribution to the rehabilitation of children with obstetric brachial palsy, however, it is important to respect the neuropsychomotor development process normal child. The physiotherapy objectives basically consists on avoiding contractures and adhesions; promoting motor and sensory stimulation; maintaining range of motion and functional training. Among the techniques that these professionals have, we can highlight passive and active kinesiotherapy, electrostimulation, proprioceptive stimulation, hydrotherapy and Movement Induction and Containment Therapy (MICT), always creating the best possible conditions for the recovery of this individual's functional capacity.