Impact of brachial plexus birth injury on health-related quality of life in adulthood: a mixed methods survey study

Abstract

Purpose To describe the scope and nature of health concerns, functional impairments, and quality of life issues among adults with brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI). Methods A mixed methods study was conducted by surveying two social media networks of adults with BPBI using a combination of closed-ended and open-ended questions regarding the role of BPBI on ones’ health, function, and quality of life. Closed-ended responses were compared across ages and genders. Open-ended responses were qualitatively analyzed to expand upon the close-ended responses. Results Surveys were completed by 183 respondents (83% female, age range 20–87 years). BPBI was reported to impact hand and arm use in 80% of participants (including affected and unaffected limbs and bimanual tasks), overall health in 60% (predominantly pain), activity participation in 79% (predominantly activities of daily living and leisure), life roles in 76% (predominantly occupation and parenting), and overall quality of life in 73% (predominantly self-esteem, relationships, and appearance). Significantly more females than males reported other medical conditions and an impact on hand and arm use and life roles. No other responses varied by age or gender. Conclusions BPBI affects many facets of health related quality of life in adulthood with variability among affected individuals.