Essential Guide to Peripheral Nerve Injuries: What You Need to Know

Posted on 10/30/2024

Essential Guide to Peripheral Nerve Injuries: What You Need to Know

Peripheral nerve injuries can disrupt your daily life, causing pain, loss of function, and frustration. Understanding these injuries and how they can be treated is key to regaining mobility and comfort. Here, we’ll explore what peripheral nerve injuries are, their common causes and symptoms, and how specialized treatments can help you reclaim your quality of life.

What Are Peripheral Nerve Injuries?

Peripheral nerve injuries occur when nerves outside the brain and spinal cord (the peripheral nervous system) are damaged. These nerves connect your central nervous system to the rest of your body, controlling sensation and movement. When they’re injured, it can lead to a range of symptoms depending on the severity and location of the injury.

Common Causes of Peripheral Nerve Injuries

Peripheral nerve injuries can result from:

•          Trauma: Fractures, dislocations, or lacerations can damage nearby nerves.

•          Repetitive Motion: Overuse injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome put pressure on nerves.

•          Compression: Prolonged pressure from swelling or improper posture can compress nerves.

•          Surgical Complications: Nerve damage may occur during medical procedures.

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of peripheral nerve injuries vary but may include:

•          Tingling or numbness

•          Burning or shooting pain

•          Weakness in the affected area

•          Loss of sensation

•          Muscle atrophy

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, a thorough evaluation by a hand and upper extremity specialist is crucial.

Exploring Minimally Invasive Surgery for Peripheral Nerve Injuries

Minimally invasive surgery has revolutionized the treatment of peripheral nerve injuries, offering patients a quicker, less painful recovery compared to traditional surgical methods. These advanced techniques involve smaller incisions, specialized tools, and often the use of imaging technologies to guide the surgeon with precision. Minimally invasive surgery reduces trauma to surrounding tissues, leading to faster healing times, minimal scarring, and less postoperative pain. It is an excellent option for treating various conditions, including nerve entrapments, compressions, and certain types of trauma. With a focus on preserving nerve function and reducing recovery time, minimally invasive surgery provides patients with an effective and efficient path to regaining mobility and relief from pain.

What is Peripheral Neurosurgery?

When conservative treatments don’t provide relief, peripheral neurosurgery may be the solution. This specialized surgical approach focuses on diagnosing and repairing peripheral nerve injuries.

Peripheral neurosurgery can:

•          Restore sensation and movement in the affected area

•          Alleviate chronic pain caused by nerve damage

•          Prevent further complications, such as muscle atrophy

•          Improve your quality of life by restoring function

Schedule a Consultation with East Bay Hand & Upper Extremity Today

If you’ve sustained a traumatic injury, notice persistent numbness or weakness, or have ongoing pain that hasn’t improved with conservative treatments, it’s time to consult a specialist. Dr. Chin is skilled in diagnosing and treating peripheral nerve injuries using advanced techniques.

If you’re experiencing a peripheral nerve injury, schedule a consultation with East Bay Hand & Upper Extremity and take the first step toward healing. Visit our office in Oakland, California, or call (510) 904-1100 to book an appointment today.