A group of health conditions that appear due to pressure on a peripheral nerve is called nerve compression syndromes. One of the most common types of these disorders is carpal tunnel syndrome. However, people may also experience other conditions, including sciatica, ulnar nerve entrapment, and others. People usually experience limb weakness, numbness, pain, or tingling. Rarely, people may develop nerve compression syndromes due to repetitive movements. Mild forms of the condition can be treated with home remedies.
In general, the peripheral nerve system connects to parts of the body (such as hands and feet) that are far away from the central nervous system (including the brain and spinal cord). Moreover, nerve compression syndromes are also a common cause of nerve (neuropathic) pain that occurs in the limbs. They may also lead to a pinched nerve and neuropathy (nerve damage).
Types of Nerve Compression Syndromes
These syndromes can affect different parts of the peripheral nerve system (in the lower or upper body). Check some examples below:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (compressed median nerve located in the wrist)
- Pronator teres syndrome (compressed median nerve in the elbow)
- Radial tunnel syndrome (radial nerve pressure that is located in the elbow)
- Suprascapular nerve entrapment (in such cases, damage occurs to the suprascapular nerve in the shoulder)
- Thoracic outlet syndrome (nerve compression in the lower neck and upper chest)
- Ulnar nerve entrapment (in such cases, compression occurs in the ulnar nerve located in the elbow or wrist)
Furthermore, nerve compression syndromes may also affect the nerves located in the lower limbs. Examples include:
- Meralgia paresthetica – This is a condition in which pressure occurs on the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve in the thigh.
- Peroneal nerve compression – It causes symptoms when pressure on the peroneal nerve in the lower leg occurs.
- Pudendal nerve entrapment syndrome – This condition occurs when the pudendal nerve in the pelvic area is compressed.
- Sciatica – This condition is often diagnosed when the sciatic nerve is damaged. It goes through the lower back, hips, buttocks, and legs.
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome – This type of nerve compression syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve is damaged. It is localized in the heel or sole of the foot.
Symptoms
While symptoms may appear gradually, they can come and go and range from mild to severe. The following symptoms often worsen with physical activity. Check some examples below:
- Numbness, tingling, or pain in the compression area (usually in the wrist, elbow, or ankle)
- Limited motion (such as lifting the hand or foot, grasping or holding onto items, and others)
- Weakness in the limbs that negatively affect performing daily tasks
- Muscle loss in the affected area (in rare cases)
Do not hesitate to visit a doctor if any of the symptoms listed above occur.
Causes
Commonly, nerve compression affects the nerves that go through small openings (such as tunnels or canals) in the joints. In general, anything that puts pressure or causes damage to the nerves may cause nerve compression syndromes and symptoms. Check some potential causes of these disorders below:
- Arthritis
- Accidents and trauma
- Wrist, ankle, or knee sprains
- Bone fractures or spurs
- Diabetes
- Dislocated joints (including a dislocated elbow or shoulder)
- Herniated disk
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland)
- Surgery complications
- Tumors or cysts
Risk Factors
While anyone may develop nerve compression syndromes, there are some factors that may increase your risk of developing them. For example, pregnancy, excessive body weight (obesity), and others. However, casts, splints, or the use of crutches may also cause problems with the nerves. Furthermore, those who participate in activities that require repetitive movements may also experience nerve compression syndromes. These include:
- Baseball players
- Bicyclists
- Assembly line workers
- Carpenters
- Construction workers
- Tennis players
- Golfers
- Typists
- Weightlifters
In addition, these syndromes may also cause some complications, especially if they are left untreated. For example, permanent damage to the nerves, muscle loss, neuropathy, loss of reflexes in the affected part of the body, permanent injury to the arm or hand, and other conditions. For more details, discuss it with your healthcare professional.
How to Prevent Nerve Compression Syndromes?
Healthcare professionals may recommend some tips that may help prevent or reduce the risk of developing nerve compression syndromes. Examples include:
- Adjust the keyboard to help wrists stay flat
- Stretch the limbs throughout the day
- It is also recommended to take periodic breaks from typing
- Wear a brace or splint
- Regularly use a wrist rest with the keyboard and mouse pad
- Do not rest your elbows on an office chair or desk for a long period
Diagnosis
Usually, physicians perform a physical examination to check for irregularities linked to the disease and may also ask some questions about your medical history and symptoms. However, to confirm or rule out these syndromes, they will perform the following tests and procedures. Check some of them below:
- Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction study – These tests are used to measure the transmission of the nerve signals to the muscles.
- Imaging tests – The following tests are used to get images of different parts of the body. They often help determine arthritis, ligament injuries, fractures, and other health problems. Doctors often perform MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), neuromuscular ultrasound, or X-rays.
Treatment
Mild and moderate forms of nerve compression syndromes can be managed with the following medications. These include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroid injections to ease pain and inflammation.
- Physical and occupational therapy – These therapies are used to improve flexibility and strength.
- Splints, braces, or orthotics – These medical devices are used to support the affected area.
In more severe cases, when previous treatments do not help, doctors may recommend surgery to relieve the symptoms. During this procedure, surgeons will:
- Open up the nerve tunnel
- Remove tumors or cysts that compress the nerve
- Repair, relocate, or transfer nerves
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prognosis for people with nerve compression syndromes?
In general, the prognosis of these syndromes is good, especially with treatment. However, some people may recover within months due to severe damage. For more details, discuss it with your doctor.
When should I see my healthcare provider?
It is recommended to contact your doctor if any of the following symptoms occur. For example:
- Joint pain
- Walking problems
- Difficulty performing daily tasks (such as buttoning a shirt, typing, or holding a pen)
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs
What is the most common nerve entrapment syndrome?
The most common form of nerve compression syndromes is carpal tunnel syndrome. It causes compression of the median nerve. It goes through the arm and control movements in the thumb and first three fingers. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider.
