Introduction

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves from the spinal cord to the arm, controlling shoulder, arm, and hand muscles. Injuries can result from trauma, like car accidents, or medical conditions, such as birth injuries.

Physiotherapy is an effective treatment option for individuals suffering from brachial plexus injury. At Physio Active, our experienced physiotherapists utilize a combination of manual therapy techniques and exercises to help patients recover from brachial plexus injuries and regain strength, mobility, and sensation in their arms.

What is a Brachial Plexus injury?

A brachial plexus injury occurs when the nerves in the brachial plexus become stretched or torn. This can result in weakness, numbness, or loss of function in the affected arm. The severity of a brachial plexus injury can range from mild to severe, with some individuals experiencing full recovery, while others may have permanent disabilities.

Types of Brachial Plexus injuries

There are several types of brachial plexus injuries, including:

Neurapraxia: A mild injury that affects the insulation of the nerves but not the actual nerve fibres.

Rupture: A more severe injury in which the nerve fibres are torn.

Avulsion: A severe injury in which the nerve fibres are pulled away from the spinal cord.

Neuropraxia with axonotmesis: An injury in which the nerve fibers are disrupted but the insulation remains intact.

Neurotmesis: A severe injury in which both the nerve fibres and insulation are disrupted.

How can physiotherapy help with Brachial Plexus injury?

At Physio Active, our physiotherapists use a combination of manual therapy techniques and exercises to help patients recover from brachial plexus injuries. Some of the specific treatment options we offer include:

Manual therapy: Our physiotherapists use manual therapy techniques, such as joint mobilization and soft tissue massage, to help improve mobility and reduce pain in the affected arm.

Strength training: We design customized strength training programs to help patients regain strength and function in the affected arm.

Range of motion exercises: Our physiotherapists work with patients to increase their range of motion and reduce muscle stiffness through targeted exercises.

Pain management: We offer pain management techniques, such as heat or ice therapy and electrical stimulation, to help relieve pain and promote healing.

Education: Our physiotherapists educate patients on proper posture and body mechanics to prevent further injury and improve recovery.

Benefits of physiotherapy for Brachial Plexus injury

Physiotherapy offers several benefits for individuals with brachial plexus injuries, including:

Pain relief: Our physiotherapists use manual therapy techniques and pain management techniques to help reduce pain and improve function in the affected arm.

Improved strength and mobility: Our strength training programs and range of motion exercises help improve strength and mobility in the affected arm.

Reduced stiffness: Our physiotherapists use manual therapy techniques and range of motion exercises to reduce muscle stiffness and improve flexibility.

Increased sensation: Our physiotherapy treatments can help improve sensation in the affected arm and reduce numbness.

Improved function: By enhancing strength, mobility, and sensation, improved function can be achieved.

Conclusion

In conclusion, brachial plexus injuries can be debilitating and have a significant impact on an individual’s daily life. However, physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option for individuals suffering from brachial plexus injuries. If you or someone you know is suffering from a brachial plexus injury, we at Physio Active can be your partner in your journey to recovery.