radial nerve palsy, a type of mononeuropathy characterized by radial nerve damage with symptoms of forearm muscle weakness and sensory loss. It may be caused by excessive compression of the radial nerve against a hard surface in individuals insensitized by the intake of alcohol or sedatives. It may also be caused by the repeated compression of the nerve by various weights. Time and the withdrawal of causative compression usually ensure full recovery. Also called Saturday night palsy.
