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Erb's palsy nerve roots
Anatomy · exam-style practice question with explanation
After a difficult delivery with shoulder dystocia, a baby holds one arm adducted, internally rotated, with the elbow extended and wrist flexed. Which nerve roots are injured?
- A. C5 and C6
- B. C8 and T1
- C. C3 and C4
- D. T1 and T2
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: A. C5 and C6
This 'waiter's tip' position is Erb's palsy, an upper brachial plexus injury to the C5 and C6 roots, often from traction during shoulder dystocia. Klumpke's palsy affects C8 and T1 and causes a claw hand.
Key point: Erb's palsy: C5–C6, waiter's tip. Klumpke's: C8–T1, claw hand.
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