Posterior interosseous nerve palsy as a complication of friction massage in tennis elbow.
Friction massage is a commonly used physical therapy that is usually safe and without complication. We report an unusual case of posterior interosseous nerve palsy that arose after friction massage. Electrophysiologic findings confirmed a focal neuropathy 4-6 cm distal to the lateral epicondyle. The neurologic symptoms resolved completely 2 mos after discontinuation of friction massage. This case experience broadens the spectrum of etiologies of posterior interosseous nerve palsy. Nerve conduction studies may be a useful adjunct to a thorough physical examination to confirm the diagnosis and is important to prognostic evaluation, if unexplained neurologic symptoms develop after certain physical therapy procedures. Further treatment includes avoiding compression and observation.
Wu
Ya-Ying
YY
Department of Neurology, Shin-Kong WHS Memorial Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan.
Hsu
Wei-Chih
WC
Wang
Han-Cheng
HC
D000328:Adult; D004576:Electromyography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008405:Massage / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods; D009431:Neural Conduction; D020425:Radial Neuropathy / Q000209:etiology*; D013716:Tennis Elbow / Q000534:rehabilitation*