OBSTETRIC PARALYSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Obstetric paralysis refers to a condition in which there is a loss or impairment of motor control and sensation due to nerve damage during childbirth. This condition specifically affects the upper limbs, typically the arm or shoulder, and is primarily caused by mechanical injury to the nerves during delivery.
During childbirth, factors such as a difficult or prolonged labor, large fetal size, or improper delivery techniques may exert excessive pressure on the nerves that control movement and feeling in the affected limb. The result is nerve damage, commonly involving the brachial plexus, which is a network of nerves located between the neck and shoulder.
Symptoms of obstetric paralysis include weakness, loss of movement, or limited range of motion in the affected arm or shoulder. Sensation may also be diminished, with the affected limb experiencing a lack of feeling or sensitivity. In severe cases, the paralysis may be permanent and require long-term medical intervention.
Treatment for obstetric paralysis typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating physical therapy, occupational therapy, and, in some cases, surgical intervention. Physical therapy helps to improve strength and flexibility in the affected limb, while occupational therapy focuses on adaptive techniques to enhance functional abilities.
Early intervention is crucial in addressing obstetric paralysis, as prompt diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes. With appropriate medical care and therapy, many individuals with this condition can regain function and lead fulfilling lives, although the degree of recovery will vary depending on the severity of the nerve damage.
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Birth palsy, p. of the newborn due to injury received during childbirth.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for OBSTETRIC PARALYSIS
- ibstetric paralysis
- kbstetric paralysis
- lbstetric paralysis
- pbstetric paralysis
- 0bstetric paralysis
- 9bstetric paralysis
- ovstetric paralysis
- onstetric paralysis
- ohstetric paralysis
- ogstetric paralysis
- obatetric paralysis
- obztetric paralysis
- obxtetric paralysis
- obdtetric paralysis
- obetetric paralysis
- obwtetric paralysis
- obsretric paralysis
- obsfetric paralysis
- obsgetric paralysis
- obsyetric paralysis
Etymology of OBSTETRIC PARALYSIS
The word "obstetric" is derived from the Latin term "obstetricius", which means "pertaining to midwifery" or "pertaining to the delivery of babies". It comes from the Latin word "obstetrix", meaning "midwife".
The word "paralysis" comes from the Greek term "paralysis", which is a combination of the prefix "para-" meaning "beside" or "beyond" and the word "lysis" meaning "loosening" or "dissolving". Therefore, "paralysis" refers to the loss of muscle function, typically caused by damage to the nervous system.
When these two terms are combined, "obstetric paralysis" refers to a condition in which there is a loss of sensation or movement in certain muscles due to nerve damage during childbirth.
Similar spelling word for OBSTETRIC PARALYSIS
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