You are in Medical Library . Causes, Incidence and Risk Factors Radial nerve dysfunction is a form of peripheral neuropathy . It occurs when there is damage to the radial nerve, which travels down the arm and supplies movement to the triceps muscle at the back of the upper arm, extension to the wrist, and helps in movement and sensation of the wrist and hand. Dysfunction of a single nerve group such as the radial nerve is classed as mononeuropathy . The usual causes are direct trauma, prolonged pressure on the nerve, and compression of the nerve from nearby body structures.
Entrapment involves pressure on the nerve where it passes through a narrow structure.
In some cases, no detectable cause can be identified. A detailed patient history may be needed to determine the possible cause of the neuropathy. They may include various blood tests, X-rays, scans, or other tests and procedures. The treatment is aimed at maximizing the ability to use the hand and arm. The cause should be identified and treated as appropriate.