Entrapment Neuropathies or Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treated at Mercy

Entrapment neuropathies are a group of disorders of the peripheral nerves or the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. Information sent to the brain and spinal cord is transmitted through the nerves that move along the upper and lower extremities across a variety of joints.  

Entrapment neuropathies occur when the nerves become compressed or entrapped at certain extremities. The most common entrapment is carpal tunnel syndrome.

What causes Entrapment Neuropathies?

There are several reasons why entrapment neuropathies develop. They include:

• External forces such as repeatedly resting one’s elbows on the arms of a chair or table (ulnar nerve)
• Diabetes
• Genetic Condition – HNPP (Hereditary Neuropathy with Pressure Palsies)
• Overweight
• Tumor

The symptoms of entrapment neuropathies are based on the particular nerve involved. The earliest indication of the disorder may include:

• Pain
• Prickling and tingling sensation
• Numbness
• Muscle weakness

For more chronic entrapment neuropathies, symptoms may include:

• Dry, thin, hairless skin
• Ridged, thickened, cracked nails
• Recurrent skin ulcerations

Nerve conduction studies are use to diagnose entrapment neuropathies. 

The treatment for entrapment neuropathies is primarily based on the medical condition that is causing the symptoms. For the most common types of entrapment neuropathies, such as carpal tunnel and cubital tunnel syndrome, surgery is recommended to relieve the pressure on the impacted nerve. In other cases, medication may be offered.