Klumpke’s palsy

Question 1

Etiology

Answer 1

compression or traction of the lower brachial plexus (C8 and
T1)

Question 2

SSx

Answer 2

paralysis of the hand and wrist muscles (also known as “claw hand” deformity)

Question 3

OT Ax

Answer 3

i. Observation of engagement in occupations (e.g., feeding, bathing, dressing)

ii. Manual muscle testing, if able, and AROM exercises

Question 4

OT Tx

Answer 4

i. Fabrication of a sling that fits proximally around the humerus to ensure proper alignment and prevent subluxation due to gravity

ii. PROM and AROM exercises

iii. Resistive exercises and weight-bearing exercises if strength improves

iv. Tactile stimulation to increase awareness (different textures, massage, vibration)

v. Engagement in activities that are bilateral in nature to increase body scheme (e.g., patty cake, peek-a-boo)

vi. Retrograde massage for edema