A WHO wrist extension assist could be utilized for nerve damage at which level?

A WHO (Wrist-Hands Orthosis) wrist extension assist is particularly effective for individuals with radial nerve injuries. This type of nerve damage typically results in wrist drop, a condition where the individual cannot maintain wrist extension. When radial nerve dysfunction occurs at the mid-humeral level, it leads to the inability to extend the wrist and fingers, which is critical for functional hand use.

Utilizing a WHO allows for mechanical support that assists with extending the wrist during functional tasks. This type of orthosis leverages a spring or other assistive mechanism to facilitate wrist extension, thus enabling the individual to grasp and use their hand more effectively despite the nerve damage.

The other nerve injuries mentioned, such as those affecting the ulnar or median nerves, present different functional deficits that do not specifically require a wrist extension assist. The musculocutaneous nerve primarily affects elbow flexion and sensory function in the forearm, rather than wrist movement, making it irrelevant for wrist extension support. Hence, targeting the radial nerve at the mid-humeral level is specifically aligned with the functionality provided by a WHO wrist extension assist.