Peripheral

A Helpful Guide to Neurological Peripheral Conditions and How They Are Treated

Neurological peripheral conditions refer to medical conditions that affect the peripheral nervous system – the network of nerves outside the brain and spinal chord.

Here is some useful insight into common neurological peripheral conditions and how they can be treated by a qualified neurosurgeon

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: In this neurological condition, the median nerve that runs through the wrist back through the nervous system is put under pressure by the opening it passes through – the carpal tunnel. The syndrome can be caused by small, repetitive movements (like those used when typing on a keyboard), repetitive grasping movements, joint and bone disease as well as physical trauma. Symptoms include weakness when gripping objects, pain or numbness in the hands that is worse at night, fingers tingling and feeling swollen. Treating this syndrome can include splinting the wrist to restrict movement, anti-inflammatory medication and surgery to relieve the pressure.

• Neurofibroma: A neurofibroma is a benign tumor on a nerve that is part of the periphery nervous system. It’s the most common variety of tumor and most commonly occurs as a result of a genetic disorder known as neurofibromatosis. These tumors do not usually need to be surgically removed unless they are causing pain or cosmetic issues.

• Schwanoma: Schwannomas are similar tumors that occur when there is an overproduction of Schwann cells and can result in minor pressure on nerves. As they can cause pain and loss of nerve function, they are usually surgically removed.

• Ulnar Neuropathy: This is a neurological peripheral condition that refers to this particular nerve in the elbow or wrist becoming entrapped. Symptoms include weakness, tingling sensations and discomfort in the region. Treatment includes pain relief medication, physical therapy and steroid injections.

• Brachial Flexopathy: This condition refers to pain, decreased movement and loss of sensation in the shoulder area due to nerve damage or pressure to the brachial plexus, the area where nerves split from the spinal chord to the arm muscles. Treatment includes physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication and pain relief medication.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may have neurological peripheral condition. Contact a board certified neurosurgeon today and find out about possible treatment.