Radial neuropathy  is a type of mononeuropathy which results from acute trauma to the radial nerve that extends the length of the arm. It is known as transient paresthesia when sensation is temporarily abnormal. Signs and symptoms
Symptoms of radial neuropathy vary depending on the severity of the trauma; however, common symptoms may include wrist drop, numbness on the back of the hand and wrist, and inability to voluntarily straighten the fingers. Loss of wrist extension is due to loss of the ability to move of the posterior compartment of forearm muscles. In the event of lacerations to the wrist area the symptom would therefore be sensory. Additionally, depending on the type of trauma, other nerves may be affected such as the median nerve and axillary nerves. Causes
There are many ways to acquire radial nerve neuropathy, including:
Upper arm - a fracture of the bone
Elbow - entrapment of the nerve
Wrist - elbow deformity and soft-tissue masses
Axilla - here the most common cause is compression. However, a dislocation of the humerus is a possible factor as well. It could also be due to brachial plexus compression. Mechanism
The mechanism of radial neuropathy is such that it can cause focal demyelination and axonal degeneration. These would be caused via laceration or compression of the nerve in question. Diagnosis
Radial neuropathy may be diagnosed using MRI, ultrasound, nerve conduction study or electromyography (EMG).
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