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Radial nerve dysfunction

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Neuropathy - radial nerve ; Radial nerve palsy

Treatment:

The treatment is aimed at maximizing the ability to use the hand and arm. The cause should be identified and treated as appropriate. In most cases, no treatment is required and recovery is spontaneous.

If there is no history of trauma to the area, conservative treatment is indicated by a sudden onset, minimal sensation changes, lack of difficulty in movement, and no test results indicating degeneration of the nerve axon.

Surgical removal of lesions that press on the nerve may be of benefit.

CONTROL OF SYMPTOMS:

Over-the-counter analgesics or prescription pain medications may be needed to control pain ( neuralgia ). Various other medications, including phenytoin, carbamazepine, or tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline, may reduce stabbing pains. Steroids (prednisone) may be used to try to minimize swelling.

Whenever possible, use of medications should be avoided or minimized to reduce the risk of medication side effects.

Physical therapy exercises may be appropriate for some people to maintain muscle strength. Orthopedic assistance may maximize the ability to use the hand in severe cases. This may include the use of braces, splints , or other appliances.

Vocational counseling, occupational therapy, occupational changes, job retraining, or similar interventions may be recommended as appropriate.

Expectations (prognosis):

If the cause of the nerve dysfunction can be identified and successfully treated, there is a possibility of full recovery. The extent of disability varies from none to partial or complete loss of movement or sensation. Nerve pain may be quite uncomfortable and may persist for a prolonged period of time. If this occurs, see a pain specialist to ensure you have access to all options for pain treatment.

Complications:

• Partial or complete loss of wrist or hand movement
• Partial or complete loss of sensation in the hand
• Recurrent or unnoticed injury to the hand
• Mild to severe deformity of the hand

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if symptoms of radial nerve dysfunction develop.

• Review Date: 9/25/2006
• Reviewed By: Andrew L. Chen, M.D., M.S., Orthopedist, The Alpine Clinic, Littleton, NH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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