Radial nerve palsy
Radial Nerve Palsy
Radial nerve palsy (/ˈreɪdiəl nɜːrv ˈpɔːlzi/), also known as Saturday night palsy, is a condition that affects the Radial nerve, one of the three main nerves in the arm. The condition is characterized by weakness or paralysis of the muscles that are supplied by the radial nerve.
Etymology
The term "radial nerve palsy" is derived from the Latin "radius" meaning "ray", and the Greek "palsia" meaning "paralysis". The term "Saturday night palsy" is a colloquial term that originated from the common occurrence of the condition after a deep sleep or unconsciousness, often due to alcohol intoxication, where the radial nerve has been compressed for a prolonged period.
Symptoms
Symptoms of radial nerve palsy can include weakness in the wrist and fingers, difficulty in extending the arm and wrist, numbness or decreased sensation in the area of the arm or hand supplied by the radial nerve, and in severe cases, complete paralysis of the parts of the arm or hand supplied by the radial nerve.
Causes
Radial nerve palsy is most commonly caused by injury to the radial nerve, often as a result of fractures of the Humerus (the bone of the upper arm or forelimb). Other causes can include prolonged pressure on the radial nerve, such as from sleeping in an awkward position (hence the term "Saturday night palsy"), and certain medical conditions such as Diabetes and Rheumatoid arthritis.
Treatment
Treatment for radial nerve palsy can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and in some cases, surgery. The specific treatment will depend on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying cause of the condition.
Related Terms
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