Sudden Wrist Drop – Presumptive Cervical Disc and Peripheral Nerve Palsy Responding Rapidly to Upper Cervical Treatment

by Son’s Rehabilitation Medicine & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul

A man in his 50s recently visited our clinic after an unexpected and alarming symptom:
he could no longer lift his right hand, and his wrist had suddenly dropped.

Worried it might be a stroke, he rushed to a university hospital emergency room.
Fortunately, brain imaging showed no abnormalities. However, his symptoms persisted — his wrist remained limp, and he was unable to lift his arm properly. Feeling confused and anxious, he came to our clinic seeking further answers.

Clinical Assessment and Presumptive Diagnosis

Upon a detailed physical and neurological examination, the following findings were noted:

  • Presumptive cervical disc involvement at the C5–C6 level

  • Upper cervical misalignment (C1–C2 instability)

  • Severe tension and myofascial tightness in the anterior and middle scalene muscles

  • Signs of possible peripheral nerve palsy, especially involving the C6 dermatome and myotome

These factors likely contributed to a transient neural conduction block, resulting in wrist extensor weakness and upper limb motor dysfunction.

Treatment Approach and Early Response (After 2 Sessions)

We initiated a non-surgical, functional neuromuscular rehabilitation program including:

  • Upper cervical (C1–C2) realignment and manual correction

  • Myofascial release of the scalene muscles and thoracic outlet region

  • IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) targeting cervical, scapular, and upper limb nerve pathways

Remarkably, after just the first treatment, the patient began to regain wrist elevation.
Following the second treatment session, muscle strength had improved noticeably, and arm movement was significantly more functional.

Although we are still early in the treatment course, the response has been very encouraging.

Summary

Not all cases of sudden wrist drop or arm weakness are caused by stroke.
Cervical disc disorders, upper cervical misalignments, and thoracic outlet-related neural compression can all result in symptoms that mimic central neurological diseases.

This case demonstrates how a well-structured functional approach — focusing on cervical spine alignment, neural decompression, and soft tissue modulation — can lead to rapid recovery even in alarming presentations.

This post is based on actual clinical experience. Personal details have been modified to protect patient confidentiality. 

👍Consultation and Appointment Information

Son PMR & Chiropractic Clinic( 2nd floor, 229-1 Gucheonmyun-Ro, Gangdongu, Seoul, South Korea) 

by  Dr Son MD & DC 
Contact: 02-482-8875 in Seoul( +82-2-482-8875)

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