Methods for complex treatment of children with obstetric paralysis

Abstract

During childbirth in case of incorrect birth management, pelvio-fetal disproportion, breech or leg presentation, etc. it is possible to damage the Plexus brachialis. Peripheral nerve damage most often occurs during manual fetal retrieval. The trauma leads to compression, stretching or rupture of the brachial /shoulder/ plexus with the resulting consequences: flaccid paresis or paralysis of the muscles of the upper limb of the child with involvement of the peripheral nerves. For several days after birth, the whole arm is paralyzed and difficult to move. Recovery depends on the severity of the damage. With proper and timely treatment, the chance of a full recovery is huge. Our study aims to establish the importance of massage as part of a comprehensive outpatient treatment of children with obstetric paralysis. We used a documentary method, analyzing literature sources examining the subject of the present study and monitoring in a rehabilitation center, where complex treatment was applied. Timely diagnosis and immediate care and rehabilitation, including massage and/ or passive and active kinesitherapy, lead to the appearance of active movements. In order to build the most correct behavior towards the sick child, the parents need to be acquainted with the nature of the disease, the home regime, the nutrition, etc. Conservative therapy and rehabilitation up to the 3rd year are effective, in more severe cases at this age a surgical intervention is most appropriate (2). From the present study we can draw the following conclusions: 1. Massage plays a leading role, especially at an early age. 2. Kinesitherapy is the most important and is the basis of treatment. 3. The parents contribute greatly to the healing process.