How Do You Get Brachial Neuritis?
The exact cause of brachial neuritis is not yet known, however, the condition is generally thought to be an immune system-mediated inflammatory reaction against the nerve fibers of the brachial plexus.
Sometimes the symptoms seem to be related to illness or injury. In other cases, the pain and muscle weakness associated with the disease occur without any explanation.
There is also an extremely rare genetic form of brachial neuritis, called hereditary neuralgic amyotrophy.
A study by Nens van Alfen and Baziel van Engelen showed that individuals with this type of neurologic amyotrophy are affected at a younger age.
These attacks are more frequent and nerves outside the brachial plexus are more likely to be affected too.
What Are the Symptoms of Brachial Neuritis?
Symptoms of brachial neuritis include:
- Severe upper arm and shoulder pain
- One side of the body is affected
- The pain is followed by weakness or paralysis in the affected muscles of the arm or shoulder
- Loss of control in the shoulder or arm
- Limited sensation or feeling in the shoulder or arm
How Do You Treat Brachial Neuritis?
Acute brachial neuritis is known to resolve itself on its own, given enough time. Your healthcare provider may prescribe corticosteroids for the pain as needed.
As soon as the pain starts to subside, you may benefit from physical therapy to rehabilitate the arm’s strength and range of motion.