For most parents, the delivery room is filled with excitement, nerves, and the hope of holding a healthy baby in their arms. But in some births, a complication called shoulder dystocia can turn that joy into a medical emergency within seconds.
What Is Shoulder Dystocia?
Shoulder dystocia happens when, after the baby’s head is delivered, one or both shoulders become stuck behind the mother’s pelvic bone. This is a true obstetric emergency because it can block the baby’s airway and cause oxygen deprivation.
In many cases, with proper training and a quick response, doctors can free the baby without causing lasting harm. But if they use too much force, delay the right maneuvers, or panic, the results can be devastating.
The Risks to the Baby
When shoulder dystocia isn’t handled correctly, it can lead to:
- Brachial plexus injuries – damage to the network of nerves controlling the shoulder, arm, and hand.
- Erb’s palsy – weakness or paralysis in the arm caused by brachial plexus injury.
- Broken collarbones or arms.
- Brain damage – from lack of oxygen during the delay.
- Stillbirth – in the most severe cases.
Brachial plexus injuries can be temporary, but in some cases, the nerve damage is permanent, leaving the child with lifelong mobility issues.
When It Becomes Medical Malpractice
Not every case of shoulder dystocia is malpractice. But it becomes negligence when:
- The doctor fails to anticipate the risk despite known warning signs (such as large baby size, maternal diabetes, or a prolonged second stage of labor).
- Staff don’t follow established protocols for relieving the obstruction.
- Excessive force is used on the baby’s head or neck.
- The delivery team fails to act quickly, causing oxygen deprivation.
Proper medical training includes a clear set of maneuvers for shoulder dystocia—such as the McRoberts position, suprapubic pressure, and, in rare cases, more invasive procedures. Delays or improper technique can mean the difference between a healthy newborn and a lifetime of injury.
The Long-Term Impact
A child with a permanent brachial plexus injury may face years of therapy, surgeries, and adaptive challenges. Nerve damage can affect growth, cause chronic pain, and limit independence in daily activities. If oxygen deprivation occurs, the injury may also include brain damage, seizures, or developmental delays.
For parents, the emotional toll is enormous. Watching your child struggle with tasks that should be simple is heartbreaking—especially when you know it could have been prevented.
Learn more here: Shoulder Dystocia Injury
How CFCK Law Investigates These Cases
Our legal team works with obstetric experts to determine:
- Whether your doctor should have predicted the risk.
- What actions were taken during the emergency.
- Whether standard shoulder dystocia maneuvers were performed correctly and promptly.
- If excessive force caused the injury.
We gather delivery room records, medical notes, and expert testimony to build the strongest case possible.
Compensation Can Secure Your Child’s Future
If malpractice caused your child’s shoulder dystocia injury, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical treatment and surgeries.
- Physical and occupational therapy.
- Adaptive equipment.
- Pain and suffering.
- Lost earning potential in the future.
You’re Not Alone
At CFCK Law, we know how quickly a delivery room emergency can change a family’s life. We’re here to listen to your story, explain your legal options, and fight for the resources your child needs to thrive.
Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your child’s future.