Strategies for the abnormal co-contraction of internal rotators of the shoulder in children with obstetrical brachial plexus palsy

Abstract

Dear Editor,

Obstetrical brachial plexus palsy (OBPP) is caused by traction of the brachial plexus during delivery. The incidence of OBPP was once reported to be 2.9 per 1000 live births, and the incidence of persisting OBPP was 0.46 per 1000.¹ Although most patients with OBPP recover spontaneously in the first 2 months, up to 35% are left with varying degrees of shoulder weakness, contracture, or joint deformity.² Even after neuro-reconstructive surgery, children with incomplete recovery often have abnormal motor performance.³