Brachial Plexus Injury Treatment in Chicago, IL

A brachial plexus injury can severely affect how your arm and hand function. These complex nerve injuries may lead to pain, weakness, loss of movement, or even complete paralysis of an upper limb.

Fortunately, Dr. Lindsay E. Janes offers advanced solutions, including specialized surgeries that restore healthy movement and sensation.

Understanding Brachial Plexus Injuries

The brachial plexus is a bundle of nerves that stems from the cervical spine (C5–T1) and upper trunk of the spinal cord. This network connects to the nerves of the shoulder, arm, and hand, powering the movements of your wrists, fingers, and arms.

These nerves also provide sensation to your skin, helping you react to things like the heat of a pan or the touch of a surface.

When this delicate system is injured, often from trauma such as a fall, auto accident, or sports-related impact, the result can be life-altering. Weakness, pain, or even paralysis of the arm or hand may follow.

If you’re living with the effects of a brachial plexus injury, surgery may offer the best chance at restoring function and improving your quality of life.

Fellowship-trained plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Lindsay Janes specializes in complex nerve conditions like these.

Signs of a Brachial Plexus Injury

Symptoms depend on the severity of the nerve damage but may include:

Weakness in the arm or hand
Hand or arm numbness
Loss of shoulder, elbow, or wrist movement
Chronic pain
Burning sensations
Complete paralysis of the affected arm

Without intervention, nerve injuries can cause long-term muscle loss and permanent disability.

Brachial Plexus Injury Treatment Options

Treatment can vary based on injury severity, when the injury occurred, pre-existing health concerns, and other individual factors. If the nerve isn’t severed, it could potentially grow back over time. Dr. Janes may recommend waiting around six months, while participating in physical and occupational therapy, to see if that could work for you.

In other situations, Dr. Janes may recommend surgery. She performs advanced surgical techniques tailored to the type and extent of your nerve injury.

After she expertly evaluates your situation, Dr. Janes works closely with you to create a customized surgical plan tailored to your specific needs.

Surgical repair may include:

Decompression: Removes scar tissue near the nerve to ease pressure but doesn’t touch the nerve itself
Nerve Transfers: Reroutes a healthy nerve from a nearby area, using it to reestablish communication pathways and restore movement.
Nerve Grafts: Using donor nerve segments to bridge damaged areas
Tendon or Muscle Transfers: Re-establishing motion by rerouting healthy muscle tissue, typically from the leg.
Microsurgical Repair: Precision reconnection of nerves under magnification.

Each case is unique. Dr. Janes works closely with you to understand how the injury affects your lifestyle, so the plan supports your goals, from resuming activities like holding a pen to returning to sports or work.

Preparing For Brachial Plexus Surgery

Dr. Janes is an experienced, fellowship-trained plastic and reconstructive surgeon with specialized training in the treatment of brachial plexus injuries.

Before surgery, Dr. Janes performs a thorough evaluation, including nerve testing, imaging, and a detailed discussion of your symptoms and goals. She takes time to understand how your injury affects your daily routine, from work and hobbies to self-care, so that your treatment plan aligns with your lifestyle.

FAQs

How do doctors diagnose a brachial plexus injury?

Diagnosis begins with a detailed physical exam to assess strength, movement, and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand. Dr. Janes evaluates how specific muscles respond and whether certain nerve pathways appear disrupted. Testing may include imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan. Additionally, Dr. Janes often uses muscle and nerve studies (EMG and NCS) to assess nerve signaling and healing. Identifying the location and severity of injury helps guide appropriate treatment planning.

What is the difference between mild and severe brachial plexus injuries?

Mild injuries involve stretching of the nerves without permanent damage, allowing some natural healing over time. Severe injuries occur when nerve fibers are partially or completely torn, limiting the body’s ability to heal on its own. The distinction matters because severe injuries often require surgical intervention to restore function.

When should I see a specialist for a brachial plexus injury?

If weakness, numbness, or nerve-related pain doesn't improve within several weeks after trauma, evaluation by a specialist like Dr. Janes is important. Early assessment helps determine whether the injury is improving naturally or whether further treatment may improve long-term outcomes.

Is nerve pain different from muscle or joint pain?

Yes. Nerve pain often feels sharp, burning, electric, or tingling and may radiate down the arm or into the hand. Muscle or joint pain usually feels sore, achy, or stiff and tends to stay localized. Recognizing this difference helps guide appropriate evaluation.

Can a brachial plexus injury affect fine motor skills?

Yes. Because the brachial plexus controls signals to the arm and hand, injuries can interfere with grip strength, finger coordination, and precise movements. Ordinary daily tasks such as writing, buttoning clothing, or using tools may become difficult depending on which nerves are affected.

How long does recovery from a brachial plexus injury take?

Recovery timelines vary widely. Mild injuries may improve gradually over several months, while more severe injuries require longer recovery periods, especially if surgery is involved. Nerves heal slowly, and rehabilitation often continues well after initial treatment.

What role does physical or occupational therapy play?

Therapy plays an important role in maintaining joint mobility, preventing stiffness, and retraining muscles as nerves recover. Even when surgery is required, therapy supports functional improvement and helps patients adapt during the healing process.

Can long-term function improve after a brachial plexus injury?

Many patients regain meaningful strength and movement with proper treatment and rehabilitation. Outcomes depend on injury severity, when treatment starts, and adherence to therapy. Early diagnosis and specialized treatment dramatically improve the likelihood of functional recovery.