Klumpke paralysis is associated with injury to which part of the brachial plexus?

Klumpke paralysis specifically results from injury to the lower part of the brachial plexus, particularly affecting the C8 and T1 nerve roots. This type of paralysis typically occurs as a consequence of excessive lateral traction on the arm during delivery or other trauma that strains these nerve roots.

The presentation of Klumpke paralysis often includes weakness or paralysis of the hand and wrist, a condition commonly referred to as "claw hand," where the hand assumes a characteristic posture due to the lack of function in the intrinsic muscles supplied by the ulnar and median nerves, which are primarily affected in this form of brachial plexus injury.

Understanding the correct association of Klumpke paralysis with the lower nerves of the brachial plexus is crucial for the assessment and management of this condition in clinical settings, including interventions that may work to address the functional impairments resulting from this injury.