Nerve compression syndrome
Some nerves run through natural constrictions. Even slight narrowing at these points may affect the function of the nerves. This leads to so-called congestion syndrome.
Frequent congestion syndrome
Affected nerve | Region | Designation |
Median nerve | Wrist | Carpal tunnel syndrome |
Ulnar nerve | Elbow | Sulcus ulnaris syndrome |
The most common of the median nerve is affected, which supplies the thenar muscles with nerves. The so-called “carpal tunnel syndrome” (CTS) affects primarily women in their 50th. In this prosess the scar tissue narrows the median nerve in the carpal channel. In the so-called “sulcus ulnaris”, the ulnar nerve is restricted on the level of the wrist or Ellen joint. Typical symptoms of nerve entrapment:
- Stabbing e.g. pain triggered by pressure or tension
- Numbness, tingling, problems of sensitivity
Especially for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Mainly nocturnal pain that may radiate to the upper arm
- Sensory disturbances mainly in the 1st -3rd Fingers, "dormant" hands
- Difficulties in fine work with your hands
- Wasting of the thumb muscles (Spätzeichen)(?)
Especially for Ulnar Nerve Compression syndrome
- Numbness in the 4th and 5th Finger
- Weakness of small hand muscles and a fading of the hypothenar eminence muscle
- Claw deformity of the ring and little fingers (Spätzeichen)
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a nerve congestion syndrome is usually already revealed after the description of the symptoms and physical examination. For proof electrophysiological studies can be carried out.
Investigation | Statement |
Determination of nerve conduction velocity (NCV) | delayed nerve conduction in the damaged section |
Electromyography (EMG) | Statement about the affected injured muscle, so-called “spontaneous discharges” are important |