Nerves carry signals from our brain allowing the movement of our extremities, while other nerves carry signal to the brain relaying pain.
Nerve injuries occur through traumatic injuries that result in cut, tears, or compressions of the nerves of our hand or lower extremities. Nerve conditions are verified through nerve studies (EMG)
Nerve Compression Syndromes:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome information found here.
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome which is a pinched nerve in the elbow called the Ulnar (also known as the funny bone nerve).
- Due to the limited space within the cubital tunnel, this nerve is easily compressed and pinched.
- Radial Tunnel Syndrome which is an uncommon condition where the nerves become compressed under muscles in the forearm.
- The posterior interosseous nerve can be compressed by muscles or vessels and cause pain, within this narrow tunnel.
- Guyon Canal Syndrome is a rare peripheral ulnar neuropathy that involves injury to the distal portion of the ulnar nerve.
- Pain from this syndrome usually travels from the ulnar through the cubital tunnel and down the arm into the wrist.
SYMPTOMS
- Pain
- Numbness and Tingling
- Nerve pain is often described as a burning sensation
- Loss of function such as lifting or gripping
- Suddenly dropping objects
- Weakness or a “heavy” feeling
- Wrist dropping, claw hand deformity, or inability to lift certain fingers that are stuck in bent position
TREATMENT
- Splinting and Braces
- Steriod Injections
- Therapy
- Medication to reduce pain and inflammation
- Surgery (which is used depending on injury and effectiveness of conservative measures).
- Some nerve injuries require surgery first with a follow-up of conservative measures to aid in recovery.
