Course Description:

Peripheral nerve injury results from the loss of transmission due to complete or incomplete disruption of nerve fibers. Approximately 1.5% of all patients with a traumatic injury sustain peripheral nerve damage, with motor vehicle accidents being the most common cause of injury. Patients with 1st or 2nd degree injuries are expected to recover full function. Recovery in 3rd degree injuries is often incomplete; surgical intervention is necessary to restore function in 4th and 5th degree injuries. The physiologic response to peripheral nerve injury includes neural, muscle, and cortical changes that must be addressed during rehabilitation. Evaluation of a patient with a peripheral nerve injury requires a comprehensive assessment of motor and sensory functions of the involved limb. Typical rehabilitation involves early mobilization and use of splints, braces, or other adaptive devices if support musculature is compromised. Neuromuscular exercise is used to maintain existing function and recover functional mobility. If surgical nerve repair, graft, or transfer is performed, rehabilitation of the donor site may be required.