Axillary Nerve Palsy
Axillary nerve palsy is a well-recognized complication of shoulder dislocation. Axillary nerve palsy is a condition characterized by loss of movement or sensation in the shoulder area. Axillary nerve palsy may occur in the myelin sheath (which shelters and protects the nerve) or the central part of the nerve cell (known as the axon). Any damage […] Read More
Top Doctors For Axillary Nerve Palsy Treatments
Top Hospitals For Axillary Nerve Palsy Treatments
Axillary Nerve Palsy
- Physical examination of the shoulder to look out for pain sensitivity, movement sharpness and swelling.
- Medical review.
- Your doctor may recommend certain tests such as
- Electromyography (EMG) to check the status of the axillary nerve.
- MRI and X-ray.
Symptoms
The following are axillary nerve palsy symptoms:
- Feeling numbness or tingling in the shoulder region.
- Weakness in the shoulders.
- Problems with normal physical activities; for instance, lifting the arms above the head.
- Having difficulty lifting objects.
- Reduced volume of shoulder muscles.
Causes
The possible axillary nerve palsy causes include:
- Blunt trauma or excessive stress on the axillary nerve over a long period.
- Other body parts putting pressure on the axillary nerve or trapping the nerve against other body structures.
- A penetrating injury, like a knife, machete or gunshot wound.
- Exceeding the normal range of motion or hyperextension injury.
FAQ
What is the long term outlook for axillary nerve palsy?
In most cases, effective treatment is more than enough to cure axillary nerve palsy. The outcome, however, depends on the extent and nature of the initial injury.
A trapped nerve may lead to chronic pain, but this resolves after surgery is done.
Those caused by long-term stress respond well to anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy.
Who are those at risk of axillary nerve palsy?
You may be at risk of axillary nerve palsy if:
- You are an athlete or someone who participates in high-impact activities that involves the upper part of the body.
- You perform repetitive tasks that involves the shoulder.
- You have an existing bone fracture.
- You improperly use supportive equipment like crutches.