Hammer palsy, also known as "brachial palsy" or "ulnar nerve palsy," is a medical condition that affects the peripheral nerves in the arm, specifically the ulnar nerve. It is characterized by weakness, numbness, and/or pain in the hand and forearm, particularly in the ring finger, pinky finger, and corresponding side of the hand.
The condition gets its name from the characteristic appearance of the affected hand, which often takes on a "claw-like" shape due to the weakness of the muscles that control finger movements. This gives the appearance of a hand perpetually holding a hammer, hence the term "hammer palsy."
Hammer palsy can occur due to various factors, including trauma or injury that compresses or damages the ulnar nerve, such as a fracture or dislocation of the elbow, repetitive motion or pressure on the nerve, or prolonged positioning that puts strain on the nerve. It can also result from medical conditions like arthritis, nerve entrapment, or tumor growth.
Common symptoms of hammer palsy include a weakened grip, difficulty grasping objects, tingling or numbness in the affected fingers, and a loss of coordination. Treatment for hammer palsy may involve conservative measures such as rest, immobilization, physical therapy, or medications to alleviate pain and inflammation. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair nerve damage or release nerve compression.
