What is 'axillary nerve injury' commonly associated with?

Axillary nerve injury is commonly associated with shoulder dislocation or fractures of the humerus because the axillary nerve innervates the deltoid and teres minor muscles, which are crucial for shoulder movement. When a shoulder dislocation occurs or there is a fracture in the proximal humerus, the axillary nerve can become compressed or damaged due to the proximity to these structures. This injury often results in weakness of shoulder abduction and loss of sensation over the lateral aspect of the shoulder (the "regimental badge" area).

Injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, disk herniation in the lower back, and upper back muscle strain do not directly involve the axillary nerve or relate to the shoulder area, making them less relevant to this specific type of nerve injury. The axillary nerve's role in shoulder functionality highlights the importance of recognizing its vulnerability during these particular traumatic events.