Axillary nerve dysfunction

Alternative Names

Treatment

Some people do not need treatment, and they get better on their own.

Anti-inflammatories may be given if you have sudden symptoms, little sensation or movement changes, no history of injury to the area, and no signs of nerve damage. These medicines reduce swelling and pressure on the nerve. They may be injected directly into the area or taken by mouth.

You may need over-the-counter or prescription pain medicines to control pain. If you have stabbing pains, your doctor may prescribe other medications, such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, gabapentin, or certain tricyclic antidepressants.

If your symptoms continue or get worse, you may need surgery. Surgery may be done to see if a trapped nerve is causing your symptoms. In this case, surgery to release the nerve may help you feel better.

Physical therapy may help you maintain muscle strength. Job changes, muscle retraining, or other forms of therapy may be recommended.

Outlook (Prognosis)

It may be possible to make a full recovery if the cause of the axillary nerve dysfunction can be identified and successfully treated.

Possible Complications

• Partial or complete shoulder paralysis
• Partial or complete loss of sensation in the arm (uncommon)
• Recurrent injury to the arm
• Deformity of the arm, shoulder contracture or fibrosis (frozen shoulder)

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of axillary nerve dysfunction. Early diagnosis and treatment increase the chance of controlling symptoms.

References

Marx J. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 6th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2006:672.

Noble J. Textbook of Primary Care Medicine. 3rd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2001:1143.