Upper Brachial Plexus Palsy (Rucksack Palsy)

Abstract

Rucksack palsy is an uncommon injury presumably caused by prolonged traction of the straps of a backpack on the brachial plexus. We present a patient with painless weakness and loss of sensation in her arm. Familiarity with the differential diagnosis of insidious, painless shoulder weakness is essential in managing patients with rucksack palsy. These patients should be treated expectantly and monitored closely.