Postoperative Shoulder Splint-Induced Palm Pressure Leading to Median and Ulnar Neuropathies: A Case Report

Postoperative positioning devices, such as shoulder splints, are commonly used to support and stabilize the upper limb following surgery. However, improper placement and prolonged pressure from these devices can lead to iatrogenic nerve injuries.

We present a case of severe axonal injury to the median and ulnar nerves at the proximal hand in a patient following shoulder surgery. This was attributed to palm pressure from a postoperative shoulder splint with a built-in palm stress ball designed to improve circulation and healing, along with impaired pain sensation from use of a pain pump. Electrodiagnostic (EDX) exam of the right upper extremity 1 year prior was normal. Postoperative EDX exam showed a decreased amplitude of right ulnar sensory amplitudes, decreased motor amplitudes of ulnar and median responses across the wrist, and associated evidence of axon damage on electromyography. These findings indicate that median and ulnar nerves at the proximal hand were affected.

We hypothesize that the nerve injuries were due to prolonged pressure in the hand from strict compliance with the splint, the palmar stress ball, and impaired sensation due to a periprocedural nerve block and postoperative pain pump. This case highlights the importance of optimizing postoperative positioning to prevent complications. It is imperative that patients are provided education regarding proper orthotic positioning, pressure relief, and the importance of frequent skin checks when prescribing a shoulder orthotic with a palm stress ball to reduce the risk of nerve injury.