The radial nerve is one of the major nerves of the upper limb. It originates from the brachial plexus (C5-T1 nerve roots) and travels from the shoulder down the arm to supply the muscles responsible for extending the elbow, wrist, and fingers. It also provides sensation to parts of the back of the hand and forearm.

A Radial Nerve Injury occurs when the nerve becomes compressed, stretched, inflamed, or injured due to trauma, fractures, prolonged pressure, or surgical complications. The severity of symptoms depends on the location and extent of nerve damage.

One of the most characteristic signs of radial nerve injury is wrist drop, where the patient is unable to actively lift the wrist or extend the fingers due to weakness of the extensor muscles.

Radial nerve injuries can occur at various locations:

• Axilla (armpit) – often due to crutch use or prolonged compression
• Upper arm – commonly associated with humerus fractures
• Forearm or wrist – due to trauma or repetitive strain

Early diagnosis and rehabilitation are essential to optimize nerve healing, maintain joint mobility, prevent muscle wasting, and restore upper limb function.

At Magnum Physiotherapy, we provide comprehensive neurorehabilitation programs using advanced technologies and evidence-based treatment approaches to maximize recovery and functional independence.

Common Symptoms

• Wrist drop (difficulty lifting the wrist)
• Inability to extend the fingers
• Weak grip strength
• Numbness on the back of the hand
• Tingling or pins-and-needles sensation
• Forearm weakness
• Difficulty holding objects
• Hand fatigue during activities
• Reduced dexterity and coordination
• Pain or discomfort along the nerve pathway

Causes & Risk Factors

Trauma & Injuries

• Humerus fractures
• Shoulder dislocation
• Direct trauma to the arm
• Penetrating injuries

Compression Injuries

• Prolonged pressure on the arm
• Improper crutch use ("crutch palsy")
• Sleeping with pressure on the arm ("Saturday night palsy")
• Tight casts or splints

Medical Causes

• Diabetes mellitus
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Inflammatory conditions

Surgical Causes

• Post-operative nerve injury
• Scar tissue formation

Types of Nerve Injury

Neuropraxia

Mild nerve compression with temporary loss of function and excellent recovery potential.

Axonotmesis

Damage to nerve fibers with preservation of surrounding structures.

Neurotmesis

Complete severance of the nerve requiring surgical intervention.

Diagnosis

At Magnum Physiotherapy, we conduct a detailed neurological and functional assessment to determine the severity and impact of the nerve injury.

The evaluation may include:

• Detailed medical history
• Sensory testing
• Muscle strength assessment
• Range of motion examination
• Reflex testing
• Functional hand assessment
• Grip strength measurement
• Nerve tension tests
• Review of EMG/Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) if available

This comprehensive assessment helps create a personalized rehabilitation plan.

Treatment at Magnum Physiotherapy

Our rehabilitation programs aim to promote nerve healing, improve strength, restore movement, and enhance hand function.

Advanced Physiotherapy Treatments

• Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS)
• Percutaneous Neuromodulation (PNE)
• Class IV Laser Therapy
• Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM)
• TENS Therapy
• Interferential Therapy (IFT)
• Kinesio Taping®
• Therapeutic Ultrasound

Rehabilitation Programs

• Nerve Gliding Exercises
• Range of Motion Exercises
• Wrist and Finger Strengthening
• Grip Strength Training
• Functional Hand Training
• Neuromuscular Re-Education
• Dexterity Exercises
• Splinting and Positioning
• Activity-Specific Training
• Home Exercise Programs

Benefits of Physiotherapy for Radial Nerve Injury

• Promotes nerve regeneration
• Prevents muscle wasting
• Improves strength and coordination
• Restores wrist and finger movement
• Enhances grip function
• Reduces pain and numbness
• Prevents joint stiffness and contractures
• Improves functional independence
• Supports return to work and daily activities
• Improves overall quality of life

Prognosis

Recovery depends on:

• Severity of nerve damage
• Location of injury
• Time to treatment
• Patient age and general health

Mild compression injuries may recover within weeks to months, while severe injuries may require prolonged rehabilitation or surgical intervention.

Why Choose Magnum Physiotherapy?

At Magnum Physiotherapy, we specialize in advanced nerve rehabilitation using evidence-based physiotherapy techniques and state-of-the-art technologies. Our individualized treatment plans focus on restoring nerve function, improving movement, and maximizing independence. Through expert care and comprehensive rehabilitation, we help patients achieve the best possible recovery outcomes.