Brachial plexus injuries (BPI) can significantly impact mobility, coordination, and strength in the upper limbs. Whether caused during childbirth or later in life due to trauma, early and consistent interventions can greatly improve recovery. This guide covers effective exercises, therapies, and strategies for both children and adults to support rehabilitation and regain functionality.
What is a Brachial Plexus Injury?
The brachial plexus is a network of nerves originating from the spinal cord that controls movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand. Injury to these nerves disrupts signals from the brain to the arm, leading to:
- Weakness or paralysis
- Loss of sensation
- Reduced reflexes
In infants, BPI often occurs during childbirth due to shoulder dystocia. In adults, it may result from accidents, falls, or repetitive strain.
Brachial Plexus Injury Exercises for Kids
Early therapy in children encourages nerve regeneration and muscle development. Recommended exercises include:
- Passive Range of Motion (PROM): Gently move the arm in all directions to maintain flexibility.
- Gentle Stretching: Slowly stretch wrist, elbow, and fingers without forcing joints.
- Tummy Time: Strengthens neck, shoulder, and arm muscles.
- Mirror Therapy: Stimulates the brain by reflecting the healthy arm.
- Weight-Bearing Activities: Encourage reaching and crawling using toys or cushions.
- Gross Motor Play: Activities like stacking blocks or plush toys enhance grasping and reaching.
- Massage: Gentle strokes improve circulation and relaxation.
Additional techniques may include nerve gliding, resistance training, and proprioceptive exercises tailored to each child’s needs.
Brachial Plexus Injury Exercises for Adults
Adults benefit from targeted physiotherapy to restore strength, coordination, and functional mobility. Key exercises include:
- Lateral Raises (Dumbbells): Strengthens shoulders; lift arms to parallel with floor, hold, and lower.
- Biceps Curls (Dumbbells): Builds arm strength; curl weights toward shoulders, hold, and lower.
- Wrist Curls (Dumbbells): Improves wrist control; lift dumbbell using wrist only.
- Triceps Kickbacks (Bench): Enhances triceps; extend elbow while keeping upper arm parallel to ground.
Exercises are usually performed in sets of 8–10 reps, 1–2 times daily, depending on the patient’s condition.
Rehabilitation at Plexus
At Plexus, a multidisciplinary approach ensures personalized care:
- Cell Therapy: Supports nerve regeneration using autologous mesenchymal cells.
- Physiotherapy: Tailored exercises for strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
- Occupational Therapy: Focuses on daily living skills and fine motor development.
- Splinting & Bracing: Maintains alignment in select cases.
- Counseling & Support: Assists families in coping with the injury.
For severe nerve damage, surgical options such as nerve grafts or transfers may also be considered.
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FAQ
What are the best exercises to improve arm function after a brachial plexus injury?
Gentle range-of-motion, stretching, strengthening (biceps, triceps, shoulders), wrist exercises, and fine motor activities.
How often should I perform brachial plexus injury exercises?
Daily or as prescribed by a physiotherapist; typically multiple short sessions are better than one long session.
How do you rehab a brachial plexus injury?
Through physiotherapy, occupational therapy, stretching, strengthening exercises, and, in severe cases, surgical intervention.
Can exercises help reduce pain associated with brachial neuritis?
Yes, gentle stretching, nerve gliding, and mobility exercises can reduce stiffness and pain.
What vitamins are good for the brachial plexus?
Vitamin B complex, vitamin C, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids support nerve health and healing.
What is the best treatment for brachial plexus?
Early physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and, if needed, surgical repair for severe nerve damage.
What should you avoid with a brachial plexus injury?
Avoid heavy lifting, sudden jerks, over-stretching, and repetitive strain on the affected arm.
Is brachial plexus injury permanent?
It depends; mild injuries may fully recover, while severe nerve damage can cause lasting weakness or paralysis.
What are the initial signs of a brachial plexus injury?
Weakness or paralysis in the arm, loss of sensation, limited reflexes, and difficulty moving the shoulder, arm, or hand.
About the Author
Dr. Kanishka Sharma, MOT
Senior Occupational Therapist & Head of Rehabilitation
Dr. Kanishka Sharma is an experienced occupational therapist specializing in neurological, musculoskeletal, and pediatric rehabilitation. With over a decade of clinical expertise, she leads the Rehabilitation Department at Plexus. She holds a BOT and MOT from Manipal University and is certified in splinting and assistive device design. She is also a certified aquatic therapist with great interest in harnessing the power of aqua therapy to improve therapeutic outcomes.
Passionate about restoring independence, Dr. Kanishka takes a family-centered approach to therapy — working closely with patients and caregivers to set meaningful goals and achieve lasting outcomes.
