Injury of musculocutaneous nerve, right arm digital illustration

Injury of musculocutaneous nerve, right arm Save


ICD-10 code: S44.41

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Injury of Musculocutaneous Nerve, Right Arm: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

The musculocutaneous nerve is a branch of the brachial plexus that supplies the muscles of the upper arm and the skin of the forearm. It arises from the C5, C6, and C7 nerve roots and innervates the biceps brachii, brachialis, and coracobrachialis muscles. An injury to the musculocutaneous nerve can result in weakness or paralysis of these muscles and sensory loss in the forearm.

Causes

An injury to the musculocutaneous nerve can occur due to various reasons, including:

  1. Trauma to the arm, such as a fracture or dislocation of the elbow
  2. Compression of the nerve due to prolonged pressure on the arm
  3. Stretching or tearing of the nerve during arm movements
  4. Neurological conditions, such as nerve compression or entrapment syndromes
Symptoms

The symptoms of a musculocutaneous nerve injury include:

  • Weakness or paralysis of the biceps brachii, brachialis, and coracobrachialis muscles
  • Pain or numbness in the forearm
  • Difficulty in bending the elbow or lifting the arm
  • Loss of sensation in the forearm
Treatment

The treatment of a musculocutaneous nerve injury depends on the severity of the injury. Mild injuries may resolve on their own with rest and physical therapy. However, severe injuries may require surgery to repair or replace the damaged nerve.

Physical therapy may be prescribed to help restore strength and range of motion in the affected arm. Pain medications may also be prescribed to help manage pain and discomfort.

In conclusion, an injury to the musculocutaneous nerve can cause weakness or paralysis of the upper arm muscles and sensory loss in the forearm. It can occur due to various reasons, including trauma, compression, stretching, or neurological conditions. Treatment options include rest, physical therapy, pain medications, and surgery.