128 chapter 14
Other helpful exercises
Swing arm
in circle.
Move back and forth.
Pull hard.
Push and pull.
Make circles
with shoulder.
Look for ways to include these exercises in work and play.
Swing from
trees (palms
toward you).
Skip rope.
Hang clothes.
Swing.
Fly a kite.
Sit back
with weight
on arms.
Push hard!
Buy your child
a goat.
Wash clothes.
(Squeeze in 1
direction, and
then the other.)
Grind maize.
PREVENTION
Erb’s palsy can sometimes be prevented if the midwife or doctor takes care not
to strain or force the baby’s shoulder when being born. Examination of the mother’s
belly before birth should let the midwife know if the baby is likely to be born breech.
In this case a hospital delivery by a skilled doctor or midwife may reduce the chance
of injury.
Contractures and significant disability from Erb’s palsy can largely be prevented by
exercises. Some weakness may last throughout life.
Disabled village Children