Nerve Injury in Children — Phoenix, AZ

Nerve Injury in Children — Phoenix, AZ

Peripheral nerve injuries in children can result from birth trauma, accidents, compression, or underlying medical conditions. Early evaluation and appropriate management optimize recovery. Dr. Tamara Zach MD at Rose Medical Pavilion provides expert nerve injury care in Phoenix, AZ.

Types of Nerve Injuries

Nerve injuries range from neuropraxia (temporary conduction block, fully reversible) to axonotmesis (axon damage with intact sheath) to neurotmesis (complete nerve division). Brachial plexus injuries from birth trauma are among the most common peripheral nerve injuries in children.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on which nerve is affected and include weakness, paralysis, numbness, tingling, pain, and changes in reflexes in the affected area. Accurate localization guides targeted treatment and rehabilitation.

Diagnosis

Electrodiagnostic testing — electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) — is the gold standard for evaluating nerve injury severity and monitoring recovery. Dr. Tamara Zach MD performs and interprets these studies in the context of the full clinical picture.

Treatment and Recovery

Treatment depends on injury type and severity. Most neuropraxias recover fully without intervention. Axonal injuries require physical and occupational therapy to maintain joint mobility and strengthen recovering muscles. Surgical evaluation is considered for complete nerve injuries that fail to show recovery.