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Radial Nerve Palsy: Care Instructions

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Radial nerve

Overview

The radial nerve runs down the arm. It controls muscles in the back of the arm. It also helps with movement and feeling in the wrist and hand.

If you injure the back of your arm or pinch the nerve, you might have trouble moving your arm, wrist, or hand. You might also have pain, weakness, numbness, tingling, or trouble lifting your wrist or fingers. This can also happen if you fall asleep in a way that puts pressure on the nerve, such as with your arm hanging over a chair.

In most cases, no treatment is needed. You will slowly get more strength and feeling. This can take weeks or even months. Sometimes physical or occupational therapy is used to keep up muscle strength. You might also need other tests, such as nerve tests or an MRI. If you don't get better, or if the injury is more serious, surgery might be needed to fix the nerve or remove something pressing on it.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

  • Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
    • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
    • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • Follow your doctor's directions for wearing a splint, brace, or other device to help you use your hand.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You have new or worse numbness in your arm, wrist or hand.
  • You have new or worse weakness in your arm, wrist or hand.
  • You have new pain, or your pain gets worse.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you do not get better as expected.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.