What is the distribution of radial nerve?

The superficial branch of the radial nerve is widely separated from the radial artery in the upper one third of the forearm, closely related to radial artery in the middle third of the forearm, and in the lower third, it descends in the forearm under the tendon of brachioradialis.

Which muscles are supplied by radial nerve?

The radial nerve and its branches provide innervation the following muscles (See Structure and Function for specific nerve branch innervations and muscle actions)[7]:

Abductor pollicis longus.
Anconeus.
Brachioradialis.
Extensor carpi radialis brevis.
Extensor carpi radialis longus.
Extensor carpi ulnaris.

How do you assess for radial nerve palsy?

To diagnose radial nerve palsy, a physician will perform a physical examination to evaluate weakness, numbness and other symptoms in the arm and hand. We then use advanced diagnostic procedures and technology to effectively diagnose, inform treatment and carefully monitor the condition.

How do you treat radial nerve palsy?

How is radial nerve palsy treated?

Pain medicine: You may be given medicine to take away or decrease pain.
Splint or cast: You may need a splint or cast to help support your wrist and hand while the radial nerve heals.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy helps you with special exercises.

What fingers are affected by the radial nerve?

Symptoms of an injury to the radial nerve A radial nerve injury usually causes symptoms in the back of your hand, near your thumb, and in your index and middle fingers. Symptoms may include a sharp or burning pain, as well as unusual sensations in your thumb and fingers.

Where does the radial nerve end in palsy?

Radial nerve travels anterior to the level of the lateral epicondyle and traverses the antecubital fossa. The nerve terminates by dividing into two branches – a deep motor branch (PIN) and a superficial sensory branch (SBRN). This is when a radial nerve palsy becomes “low”.

Where is the deep branch of the radial nerve located?

Deep branch (motor) – innervates the muscles in the posterior compartment of the forearm. Superficial branch (sensory) – contributes to the cutaneous innervation of the dorsal hand and fingers. The radial nerve innervates the muscles located in the posterior arm and posterior forearm.

When does the radial nerve penetrate the supinator muscle?

As a generalisation, these muscles act to extend at the wrist and finger joints, and supinate the forearm. Note: When the deep branch of the radial nerve penetrates the supinator muscle of the forearm, it is termed the posterior interosseous nerve for the remainder of its course.

How are the sensory functions of the radial nerve affected?

The patient is unable to extend at the forearm, wrist and fingers. Unopposed flexion of wrist occurs, known as wrist-drop. Sensory functions – all four cutaneous branches of the radial nerve are affected.

What is the distribution of radial nerve? The superficial branch of the radial nerve is widely separated from the radial artery in the upper one third of the forearm, closely related to radial artery in the middle third of the forearm, and in the lower third, it descends in the forearm under the tendon of…