Radial palsy in an individual with high-level chronic spinal cord injury

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2020 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-020-0304-7 · Published: June 14, 2020

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

The paper discusses a case of radial nerve palsy in a man with a chronic spinal cord injury. Prolonged compression can cause radial neuropathy but hasn't been reported in SCI individuals, despite their increased risk due to wheelchair use and sensory deficits. Diagnosis is difficult because symptoms of nerve damage overlap with existing SCI-related issues. The patient experienced nerve compression for seven hours due to being stuck in his wheelchair. The patient recovered motor and sensory function after mobility exercises and vitamin B supplementation. This case highlights the need for precautions to prevent nerve compression in individuals with SCI.

Study Duration

4 Months

Participants

One 48-year-old man with a C6 AIS A SCI

Evidence Level

Level 4: Case Report

Key Findings

1
A patient with chronic SCI experienced acute compressive radial neuropathy due to prolonged compression from being stuck in his wheelchair.
2
Electrophysiologic testing showed severe reductions in amplitude, contrasting with typical findings in able-bodied individuals with Saturday night palsy.
3
The patient achieved full recovery of motor and sensory function to baseline levels following mobility exercises and vitamin B supplementation.

Research Summary

This case report describes the first reported instance of acute compressive radial neuropathy in a tetraplegic patient. The patient, a 48-year-old man with a C6 AIS A SCI, experienced prolonged radial nerve compression after falling and becoming stuck in his motorized wheelchair. Diagnosis was challenging due to pre-existing deficits related to SCI. Electrophysiologic testing revealed severe reductions in amplitude, a deviation from typical findings in able-bodied individuals with radial neuropathy. The patient recovered fully after mobility exercises and vitamin B supplementation, underscoring the need for preventative measures such as stability devices and medical alert systems for individuals with SCI.

Practical Implications

Preventative Measures

The study highlights the need for trunk and limb stability devices to prevent nerve compression in SCI individuals.

Medical Alert Devices

The case emphasizes the importance of medical alert devices for individuals with SCI to access timely help and reduce morbidity associated with prolonged compression.

Awareness and Education

Increased awareness and education among caregivers and individuals with SCI regarding the risk of peripheral nerve injuries are crucial for early detection and intervention.

Radial palsy in an individual with high-level chronic spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Preventative Measures

Medical Alert Devices

Awareness and Education

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Radial palsy in an individual with high-level chronic spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Preventative Measures

Medical Alert Devices

Awareness and Education

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?