Erb’s Palsy - an overlook lesion of the upper extremity

Erb’s palsy is the most common form of obstetrical brachial plexus palsy. The infant’s upper extremity hangs floppily from the shoulder with flexion of the wrist and fingers due to paralysis of muscles innervated by C5 and C6 cervical nerve roots. Lack of long term studies fails to delineate the natural course of the disease. Erb’s palsy has better prognosis than complete brachial plexus palsy. Timely intervention results in good functional recovery. The case presented here not only highlights rarity of the lesion but also its delayed presentation to the clinician and its difficult diagnosis and henceforth consequent overlook on the part of parents and clinician, especially in developing countries.