Acute compressive radial neuropathy and wrist drop due to the repetitive overuse of the arm

Neurol Sci. 2020 Apr;41(4):989-991. doi: 10.1007/s10072-019-04100-1. Epub 2019 Dec 9.

Abstract

Objection: Entrapment neuropathies are common in clinical practice. Early diagnosis and management of nerve compression is necessary to maintain limb function and to improve the patient's quality of life.

Case report: In this article, we reported a woman presenting with wrist drop as a result of acute radial nerve compression following strenuous activity involving the arms. The diagnosis was based on clinical and ultrasonographic findings. Once the diagnosis was made, activity modifications and systemic steroid were prescribed, and the patient made a near-complete recovery.

Conclusion: Patients with acute wrist drop and sensorial loss should be examined in terms of arm overuse, and radial nerve compression should be confirmed by peripheral nerve ultrasound.

Keywords: Arm overuse; Compressive neuropathy; Radial nerve; Ultrasonography.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Adult
  • Cumulative Trauma Disorders* / diagnosis
  • Cumulative Trauma Disorders* / physiopathology
  • Cumulative Trauma Disorders* / therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intramuscular
  • Nerve Compression Syndromes* / diagnosis
  • Nerve Compression Syndromes* / physiopathology
  • Nerve Compression Syndromes* / therapy
  • Radial Neuropathy* / diagnosis
  • Radial Neuropathy* / physiopathology
  • Radial Neuropathy* / therapy
  • Steroids / administration & dosage
  • Ultrasonography
  • Wrist* / diagnostic imaging
  • Wrist* / physiopathology

Substances

  • Steroids