What it is
The brachial plexus is the network of nerves that supplies the arm. It can be irritated or injured after illness, immunisation, surgery or trauma, causing severe pain followed by weakness in a pattern that does not fit a single tendon.
How it usually presents
- Sudden severe shoulder or arm pain, often at night
- Weakness developing as the pain settles
- Muscle wasting, sometimes around the shoulder blade
How it is assessed
Detailed neurological examination, nerve conduction studies and MRI.
Treatment options
- Pain management and specialist physiotherapy
- Monitoring recovery over time, as many cases improve
- Referral for nerve or tendon transfer surgery where recovery is incomplete
Non-surgical treatment is considered first wherever it is reasonable. Which option suits you depends on your symptoms, your goals and what you want from treatment, which is exactly what we discuss in clinic.
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