The axillary nerve, also known as the circumflex nerve, originates in the brachial plexus, specifically in the C5 and C6 nerve roots of the spinal cord. It runs through the axillary region towards the back of the shoulder, wrapping around the humerus and passing between the deltoid and teres minor muscles.
When this nerve is damaged it can cause a variety of symptoms, affecting the sensitivity and function of the shoulder and arm. Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Pain in the shoulder area, which may radiate to the arm.
- Muscle weakness in the affected shoulder and arm.
- Tingling or numbness in the shoulder, arm, or part of the hand.
- Loss of ability to raise the arm.
- Burning or stinging sensation in the shoulder area.
- Loss of sensitivity in the skin.
On the other hand, the most common causes that can cause axillary nerve neuropathy are:
- Trauma: Direct injuries to the shoulder region, such as falls, impacts or sports injuries.
- Direct compression: Prolonged compression on the axillary nerve, such as during sleep or with the use of crutches for a long time.
- Entrapment through the musculature of the shoulder region.
- Repetitive activities: Throwing objects, lifting weights, hitting a racket.
Systemic diseases: Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis or Lyme disease. - Surgical complications.
From a physiotherapy perspective, the most important thing is to assess this type of injury and, from there, put yourself in the hands of good health professionals to address the problem.
At Evolution Physiotherapy we have experts in addressing this type of pathology, who can help you improve the symptoms present through techniques such as manual therapy, neurodynamics or the use of percutaneous neuromodulation.
