Question
An 8-month-old child has limited flexibility in the right arm compared to the left, and rarely actively picks up items with the right hand. The left hand’s grip function is normal, allowing for play. The child is currently receiving treatment at Xinxiang City Children’s Hospital, which includes electrotherapy, rehabilitation training, and injection of corticosteroids for closed treatment. The child has undergone five to six sessions of closed treatment and approximately half a month of rehabilitation training. There has been some improvement in the ability to lift the right arm, but there has been no progress in the ability to grasp items with the right hand.
Answer
From the description, it can be inferred that the child experienced oxygen deficiency during birth, resulting in a lower Apgar score and poor respiratory function after birth. It is unclear whether the right arm was pulled during the birthing process. If so, combined with the child’s current performance, it can be diagnosed as arm nerve damage. Since birth, seven months have passed, and there has been some improvement in the activity of the right arm and hand after treatment. Personally, I believe that conservative treatment as described can still be continued. During the treatment process, treatment effects should be compared once a month. If there is progress, continue treatment. If there is no progress, further examination or treatment at a higher-level hospital is required. Additionally, observe the child’s lower limb activity and pay attention to intellectual development.