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Radial nerve palsy: a complication of walker usage
N A Ball1, L M Stempien, D V Pasupuleti
1Department of PM&R, Northwestern University/Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, IL 60611.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|March 1, 1989
Summary
Prolonged walker use can cause acute radial nerve palsy in diabetic patients due to mechanical compression. Early diagnosis and prevention are crucial for rehabilitation and avoiding radial mononeuropathy.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a common complication affecting nerve function.
- Radial nerve palsy can arise from various causes, including compression injuries.
Observation:
- A patient with diabetic neuropathy developed sudden proximal radial nerve palsy after extended walker use.
- Clinical examination and electrodiagnostic studies revealed a severe neurapraxic lesion of the radial nerve.
Findings:
- The lesion was located distal to the branches supplying the triceps and anconeus muscles.
- Mechanical compression at the spiral groove is the likely cause of this radial mononeuropathy.
- This presentation is consistent with previously reported cases involving radial nerve injury.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should be aware of the risk of radial nerve palsy in patients using walkers or wheelchairs.
- Prompt diagnosis and targeted rehabilitation are essential for managing this complication.
- Preventive strategies should be considered for at-risk patient populations.