|
|
Ulnar Nerve Dysfunction
Alternate Names : Neuropathy - Ulnar Nerve, Ulnar Nerve Palsy
DefinitionUlnar nerve dysfunction involves impaired movement or sensation in the wrist and hand caused by damage to the ulnar nerve.
Pictures & Images
See all Pictures & Images
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Ulnar nerve dysfunction is a common form of peripheral neuropathy. It occurs when there is damage to the ulnar nerve, which travels down the arm and supplies flexion (bending movement) to the wrist and aids in movement and sensation of the wrist and hand.
Dysfunction of a single nerve group (such as the ulnar nerve) is classed as mononeuropathy. Mononeuropathy implies a local cause of the nerve damage, although systemic disorders may occasionally cause isolated nerve damage (such as occurs with mononeuritis multiplex).
The usual causes are direct trauma, prolonged external pressure on the nerve, or compression of the nerve caused by swelling or injury of nearby body structures. Entrapment involves pressure on the nerve where it passes through a narrow structure.
The damage involves destruction of the myelin sheath of the nerve, or destruction of part of the nerve cell (the axon). This damage slows or prevents conduction of impulses through the nerve.
The ulnar nerve is commonly injured at the elbow because of elbow fracture or dislocation. The ulnar nerve is near the surface of the body where it crosses the elbow, so prolonged pressure on the elbow or entrapment of the nerve may cause damage.
Prolonged pressure on the base of the palm may also cause damage to part of the ulnar nerve, resulting in symptoms that are localized to the small hand muscles. In some cases, no detectable cause can be identified.
The mechanical factors may be complicated by ischemia (lack of oxygen related to decreased blood flow) in the area.
Today's Top News Stories | | FDA Backs Cholesterol Drug Vytorin - Jan 08, 2009, 17:00 Review says it lowered bad cholesterol more effectively than Zocor. | | Common Flu Strain Resistant to Popular Antiviral Drug - Jan 08, 2009, 19:00 But other medications are available that work, CDC officials stress. | | Many Turn Blind Eye to Racism - Jan 08, 2009, 17:00 They're not quick to condemn hurtful comments, study suggests. | | Studies Challenge Framingham Risk Score - Jan 08, 2009, 19:00 The long-standing assessment for heart risk may not be accurate in some cases. | | Clinical Trials Update: Jan. 8, 2009 - Jan 08, 2009, 10:12
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Neurologic Disorders
- Seizure Disorders
|
|
Jump to another section
Definition Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors Symptoms & Signs Prevention Diagnosis & Tests Treatment Prognosis Complications Calling Your Health Care Provider
Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
Mononeuritis Multiplex Mononeuropathy Neuralgias Peripheral Neuropathy
Tests & Exams
Electromyography Nerve Conduction Velocity Urinary Casts X-Ray
Other Topics
Broken Bone Chronic Dislocation Muscle Atrophy Muscle Function Loss Myelin Numbness and Tingling Pain Medications Swelling Systemic Weakness
Review Date : 7/28/2002
Reviewed By : Elaine T. Kiriakopoulos, M.D., MSc, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
|