Median nerve palsy is a condition that affects hand movement, grip strength, and finger sensation due to damage or compression of the median nerve. This nerve plays a vital role in thumb movement, finger flexion, and fine motor skills. When it is not functioning properly, daily activities like writing, holding objects, or buttoning clothes become …
Median nerve palsy is a condition that affects hand movement, grip strength, and finger sensation due to damage or compression of the median nerve. This nerve plays a vital role in thumb movement, finger flexion, and fine motor skills. When it is not functioning properly, daily activities like writing, holding objects, or buttoning clothes become difficult.
This article provides a simple, complete explanation of median nerve palsy, covering its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and the most effective treatment options.
What Is Median Nerve Palsy? Median nerve palsy occurs when the median nerve is injured, compressed, or stretched, leading to weakness and sensory loss in the hand. The median nerve controls: Thumb opposition and movement Flexion of the index and middle fingers Sensation on the palm side of the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger Damage to this nerve disrupts hand coordination and grip strength.
Common Causes of Median Nerve Palsy
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Median nerve palsy can develop due to trauma, prolonged compression, or underlying medical conditions.
Major Causes
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Fractures of the forearm or wrist
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Nerve compression from tight casts or swelling
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Severe carpal tunnel syndrome
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Penetrating injuries or surgical trauma
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Repetitive wrist and hand movements
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Tumors or cysts pressing on the nerve
Medical Conditions
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Diabetes-related nerve damage
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Inflammatory disorders
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Post-operative nerve injury
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Symptoms of Median Nerve Palsy
Symptoms depend on the severity and duration of nerve involvement.
Early Symptoms
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Numbness or tingling in the thumb and fingers
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Weak grip strength
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Difficulty holding small objects
Advanced Symptoms
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Inability to bend the thumb, index, or middle finger
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Loss of thumb opposition (ape hand deformity)
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Muscle wasting at the base of the thumb
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Reduced hand coordination and fine motor control
Persistent symptoms should never be ignored, as early treatment improves recovery.
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How Is Median Nerve Palsy Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation and advanced nerve testing.results.
Diagnostic Tests
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Detailed physical and neurological examination
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Nerve conduction studies (NCS)
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Electromyography (EMG)
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MRI or ultrasound to identify nerve compression or injury
According to Dr. Anubhav Gupta, one of the best hand surgeons in Delhi, early and accurate diagnosis is the key to preventing permanent nerve damage and restoring hand function.
Treatment Options for Median Nerve Palsy
Treatment is customized based on the cause, severity, and duration of symptoms.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Effective for mild to moderate cases:
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Rest and activity modification
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Wrist or hand splinting
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Anti-inflammatory medications
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Physiotherapy and nerve-gliding exercises
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Occupational therapy for hand function recovery
Surgical Treatment
Recommended for severe or long-standing cases:
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Median nerve decompression surgery
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Nerve repair or nerve grafting
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Tendon transfer surgery in chronic palsy
Specialists like Dr. Anubhav Gupta, widely regarded as the best hand surgeon in Delhi, focus on personalized surgical planning to maximize nerve recovery and hand strength.
Recovery Time and Prognosis
Recovery depends on:
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Extent of nerve damage
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Timing of treatment
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Patient’s age and overall health
Expected Recovery Timeline
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Mild nerve compression: weeks to months
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Moderate nerve injury: 3–6 months
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Severe injury or surgery: 6–12 months or longer
Early intervention significantly improves long-term outcomes.
Median Nerve Palsy vs Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
| Feature | Median Nerve Palsy | Carpal Tunnel Syndrome |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Nerve injury or damage | Nerve compression at wrist |
| Weakness | Significant | Usually mild |
| Muscle wasting | Common in advanced cases | Rare |
| Treatment | Often surgical if severe | Mostly non-surgical |
When Should You Consult a Hand Surgeon?
You should see a specialist if you experience:
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Persistent numbness or finger weakness
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Difficulty gripping or pinching objects
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Visible muscle wasting in the hand
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Symptoms that are worsening or not improving
Consulting an experienced specialist like Dr. Anubhav Gupta, a trusted name and best hand surgeon in Delhi, ensures timely treatment and optimal recovery.
Conclusion
Median nerve palsy is a treatable condition when diagnosed early. Timely medical care helps restore hand strength, sensation, and function while preventing long-term complications. With expert treatment from Dr. Anubhav Gupta, best hand surgeon in Delhi, patients can achieve better recovery outcomes and regain confidence in daily activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is the best doctor for median nerve palsy surgery in Delhi?
Dr. Anubhav Gupta is widely recognized as one of the best hand surgeons in Delhi for treating median nerve palsy.
2. What is median nerve palsy surgery and when is it needed?
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3. What is the cost of median nerve palsy surgery in Delhi?
The cost of median nerve palsy surgery in Delhi typically ranges from ₹50,000 to ₹2,00,000, depending on the severity of the condition, type of surgery, hospital, and surgeon’s expertise.
4. What are the symptoms that require median nerve palsy surgery?
Severe hand weakness, thumb movement loss, muscle wasting, and persistent numbness may indicate the need for surgery.
5. How long does median nerve palsy surgery take?
Most median nerve palsy surgeries take between 60 to 120 minutes, depending on the complexity.
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