Re: Ape hand

James McMahon, MPT, ATC

Description

Title:

Re: Ape hand

Creator:

James McMahon, MPT, ATC

Date:

8/20/2002

Text:

Joe,
In response to your post regarding Ape Hand deformity, it is often defined
as a condition in which as a result of median N palsy, there is wasting of
the thenar eminence. Subsequently, the thumb will adduct and extend
sligtly, therefore falling in line with the other digits. As a result,
there is inability to oppose and/or flex the thumb. Hope this helps. (see
Magee, Orthopedic Physical Assessment)

James H. McMahon MPT, ATC
Physical Therapist
Fort Howard VA Medical Center
(410) 477-7107

-----Original Message-----
From: Joe Harvey [mailto:<Email Address Redacted>]
Sent: Tuesday, August 20, 2002 10:39 AM
To: <Email Address Redacted>
Subject: [OANDP-L] Ape hand


I was asked about a hand condition called ape hand. It was news to
me. If I remember correctly the apes at the zoo have their arms hanging
down with wrists flexed. So I might surmise that ape hand is a
condition where a lesion to the radial nerve prevents efforts to extend
the wrist. Please comment.

Joe Harvey
orthotist / prosthetist

                          

Citation

James McMahon, MPT, ATC, “Re: Ape hand,” Digital Resource Foundation for Orthotics and Prosthetics, accessed November 25, 2024, https://library.drfop.org/items/show/219390.