Musculocutaneous neuropathy after strenuous physical activity

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Sports Medicine
• Anatomy

Background:

• Musculocutaneous neuropathy is a rare condition affecting the nerve that controls key arm muscles.
• Heavy physical activity can place stress on peripheral nerves.

Observation:

• Three cases of isolated musculocutaneous neuropathy linked to intense physical exertion are presented.
• Patients exhibited motor deficits, specifically weakness and loss of contour in the biceps brachii muscle.

Findings:

• The neuropathy was predominantly motor, impacting biceps function.
• Two patients achieved complete recovery, while one had persistent biceps weakness.
• Nerve entrapment or stretching within the coracobrachialis muscle is the suspected cause.

Implications:

• This condition must be differentiated from biceps tendon/muscle rupture, brachial plexopathy, and cervical radiculopathy.
• Understanding this specific neuropathy aids in accurate diagnosis and management for athletes and physically active individuals.
• Highlights the importance of considering nerve entrapment in cases of exercise-induced muscle weakness.