Effect of immobilization on nerve conduction

Electrophysiological examination of the nerves in the immobilized [after linear, simple and closed fractures] disclosed an ample information regarding functional status of the nerves. Thirty nine patients [9 females and 30 males], having one upper limb immobilized by plaster of Paris were subjected in the study for measurement of motor and sensory conduction velocities of median and ulnar nerves. The conduction velocities were in both nerves. The distal motor latency of median and ulnar nerves was prolonged in immobilized limbs. These Findings showed clearly that immobilizatiaon produced neuropathic changes of variable degrees which need to be watched so that more serious disorders could be avoided