Radial nerve dysfunction

Alternative names:

neuropathy - radial nerve

Symptoms:

• symptoms can affect
  • the hand or forearm (dorsal surface)
  • the "thumb side" (radial surface) of the dorsal hand
  • the fingers nearest the thumb (2/3)

• numbness, decreased sensation, tingling, or a burning sensation
• pain
• abnormal sensations
• difficulty extending the arm at the elbow
• difficulty extending the wrist

Signs and tests:

A neuromuscular examination of the arm, hand and wrist can identify radial nerve dysfunction. There may be weakness of the wrist and finger extension muscles, with decreased ability to extend the arm at the elbow, a minor decreased ability to rotate the arm outward (supination), and difficulty lifting the wrist or fingers (extensor muscle weakness). Wrist drop or finger drop may be present, or there may be atrophy (muscle loss) of some of the muscles of the forearm. A detailed patient history may be needed to determine the possible cause of the neuropathy.

Tests that reveal nerve dysfunction may include:

• EMG (a recording of electrical activity in muscles)
• nerve conduction tests
• nerve biopsy

Tests are guided by the suspected cause of the dysfunction, as suggested by the history, symptoms presented, and pattern of symptom development. They may include various blood tests, X-rays, scans, or other tests and procedures.