Radial Nerve Injury / Palsy

The radial nerve is a major peripheral nerve of the arm that when injured results in a “wrist drop,” or the inability to extend one’s fingers, thumb, and wrist. A radial nerve palsy can occur from a broken humerus (arm) bone, a deep laceration of the arm, a traction injury (nerve stretching), an arm contusion (deep bruise), or even abnormal prolonged positioning of the arm (aka, “Saturday Night Palsy”). A radial nerve palsy is one of the most common palsies of the body.