Nerve Compression Syndrome in the Hand (Part 1)
One of the most common conditions treated by hand specialists is nerve compression syndrome, which occurs when a nerve is compacted or squeezed. While nerve compression syndrome can also affect other parts of the body -such as the torso- it primarily occurs in the hand or arm. If your arm or hand is experiencing symptoms such as numbness, pain, or muscle weakness at the sight of the nerve, you may be experiencing nerve compression syndrome.
In this article, Macomb County hand specialist Dr. Uzma Rehman explains everything there is to know about nerve compression syndrome in the hand; outlining its causes and symptoms, as well as the treatments we offer our Macomb County patients.
Nerve compression syndrome is also sometimes called: nerve entrapment syndrome, compression neuropathy, entrapment neuropathy, or “trapped nerve”.
Causes of Nerve Compression Syndrome in the Hand
One of the most common causes of Nerve Compression Syndrome are repetitive injuries. Macomb County hand specialist Dr. Rehman also treats patients who have developed Nerve Compression Syndrome in relation to medical conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, or rheumatoid arthritis.
The repetitive injuries that often lead to Nerve Compression Syndrome frequently occur in the workplace, often the result of one’s job duties requiring them to repeat certain hand motions or movements. Macomb County hand specialist Dr. Rehman often treats patients whose condition sprung from long hours typing on a keyboard or using a mouse.
Injuries such as fractures, sprains, and broken bones are also known to lead to nerve compression syndrome. Should any such injury occur in one’s hand, the injured individual is advised to seek the care of a hand specialist for treatment immediately.
There are multiple types of nerve compression syndrome that may require the care of a hand specialist, each affecting a different peripheral nerve.
The most common type of nerve compression syndrome is known as carpal tunnel syndrome. Patients who come to Macomb County hand specialist Dr. Rehman do so for relief from excess pressure on the wrist’s median nerve -which extends from the upper arm to the thumb, and passes through a structure of the wrist called the carpal tunnel.
But carpal tunnel syndrome is only one of many conditions that may require the care of a hand specialist. The second most common form of nerve compression syndrome is called cubital tunnel syndrome, which occurs when the elbow’s ulnar nerve is compressed. Passing close to the skin of the elbow, the ulnar nerve is responsible for the painful sensation that occurs when one hits their funny bone. Macomb county hand specialist Dr. Rehman advises her patients from exerting to much pressure on their elbows, as doing so can lead to the swelling that causes cubital tunnel syndrome.
Macomb County hand specialist Dr. Rehman also treats a type of nerve compression syndrome called Guyon’s canal syndrome. Also affecting the ulnar nerve, this condition is known to impact the functional ability of the patient’s hand.
Radial nerve compression syndrome, on the other hand, affects the patient’s radial nerve. Radial nerve compression syndrome may require the treatment of a hand specialist, as it can have a negative impact on the fingers’, wrist’s, or hand’s ability to function.
Symptoms of Nerve Compression Syndrome in the Hand
The patients of Macomb County hand specialist Dr. Rehman will all experience different symptoms, all of which are based on the location and the type of their nerve compression syndrome. In most cases, symptoms occur at the sight of the compression, but may also occur in the structures and areas surrounding the affected area.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as tingling, numbness, redness, inflammation, or aches and pain, schedule a consultation with Macomb County hand specialist Dr. Rehman for evaluation. These symptoms, along with reduced flexibility, muscle weakness, or difficulty performing certain physical motions, may all be the product of nerve compression syndrome.
During your consultation, Macomb County hand specialist Dr. Rehman will assess the patient’s symptoms, and my also perform diagnostic tests to determine whether the patient is experiencing nerve compression syndrome. Usually, this is accomplished simply through a physical examination, but in less common cases may include an ultrasound, MRI, or electromyography.
CLICK HERE for Part 2: Treatment & Outcome for Nerve Compression in the Hand
Hand Specialist – Macomb County
If you are experiencing pain, numbness, tingling, or any other symptoms of nerve compression syndrome, contact Macomb County hand specialist Dr. Rehman for a comprehensive evaluation and consultation. As with any medical condition, early detection and intervention is important to treat and stop progression of the condition so you can experience a full recovery.