AMSSM Sports Medcasts Sports Medicine Primer Series – Upper Extremity Neuropathy (Part 2)
6 snips
May 6, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Dr. Dan Cushman, a board-certified expert in Sports Medicine and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, shares his insights on diagnosing and managing upper extremity neuropathies. The conversation delves into the nuances of scapular winging and the role of muscles like the rhomboids and trapezius. Dr. Cushman also highlights the importance of electromyography in pinpointing nerve injuries and sheds light on treatment strategies for long thoracic mononeuropathy, emphasizing the role of physical therapy and recovery expectations.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Differentiating Nerve Injury Types
- History is crucial to distinguish cervical radiculopathy from peripheral neuropathy.\n- Lack of arm numbness or weakness reduces the likelihood of cervical radiculopathy.
Understanding Scapular Winging
- Medial scapular winging means the scapula moves medially, often due to serratus anterior palsy.\n- Lateral winging involves the scapula moving laterally, typically from rhomboid or trapezius weakness.
Long Thoracic Nerve Vulnerability
- The long thoracic nerve innervates serratus anterior and can be compressed along its course from C5-7 roots.\n- Ultrasound can detect serratus anterior muscle atrophy but MR neurography rarely shows nerve abnormalities.