Elbow Neurological Conditions
Introduction
The ulnar, radial, and median nerves all tranverse the elbow, and disease processes of the elbow can affect any of these nerves.
Ulnar Neuropathy
Ulnar neuropathy is the most common compressive neuropathy of the elbow. Patients may complain of a weakened grip and clumsy hand. Clinical signs include sensory loss and paraesthesias over the 4th and 5th fingers, and weakness of the interossei.
Radial Tunnel Syndrome and PIN Entrapment
Anterior Interosseous Nerve Entrapment
The anterior interosseous nerve is a pure motor branch of the medial nerve). Clinical features include weakness of the flexor digitorum profundus of the 2nd and 3rd fingers. There is no sensory loss, however the patient may report paraesthetic pain at the elbow or over the proximal volar aspect of the forearm.
Posterior Interosseous Nerve Entrapment
The posterior interosseous nerve is a pure motor branch of radial nerve. Clinical features include deep seated pain within the elbow and weakness of extension of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th digits.
