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Wrist drop (radial nerve palsy)

Also called: Wrist drop, radial nerve palsy, Saturday night palsy

Can't lift the wrist or fingers, often from pressure on the upper arm (like falling asleep on it).

RecoveryUsually weeks to months

Overview

The radial nerve lifts the wrist and fingers. It can be pressed against the arm bone during deep sleep or with crutches.

A broken upper arm can also injure it.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Can't lift the wrist

Less common

  • Numb back of hand
  • Weak grip

When to get medical care

Call 911Sudden face drooping, arm weakness, trouble speaking, or vision loss: call 911.
Get care todayNew or worse symptoms, or symptoms with fever.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.

Causes

Nerve pressure.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Exam:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

  • Wrist splint
  • Wear a wrist splint to keep the hand functional
  • Do gentle range-of-motion exercises

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

  • Use crutches correctly
  • Avoid sleeping on your arm after drinking

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most recover in weeks to months.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What's causing this?
  • What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Wrist drop (radial nerve palsy)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.