The mnemonic
Erb upper, Klumpke lower
What each word stands for
- Erb upperC5-C6 upper trunk: waiter's tip posture
- Klumpke lowerC8-T1 lower trunk: claw hand, possible Horner's syndrome
Why it matters clinically
Links the posture to the root level in an obstetric or traction injury.
Where it stops being reliable
Does not cover total plexus palsy or the prognosis for recovery.
Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.