Nerve Conditions Specialist

What is nerve damage?

Your nerves carry messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Messages include direction on movement as well as information about pain, pressure, and temperature. Nerves are bundles of fibers that are covered by an outer layer of insulating tissue; sometimes, the nerves themselves or this tissue insulation sustain damage.

Several major nerves around the hand and forearm are subject to injury. These include the median nerve that runs through the carpal tunnel at the wrist, and the ulnar nerve which runs through the cubital tunnel at the elbow.

What causes nerve damage?

Nerve damage can be caused by pressure, overstretching, and cuts. Carpal tunnel syndrome, for example, occurs when the carpal tunnel that encases the median nerve becomes inflamed and puts pressure on the nerve.

What are the symptoms of nerve injury?

Suspect a nerve condition if you have:

• Numbness
• Weakness
• Pain
• Muscle loss

Nerve symptoms don’t show up in the spot where the nerve is compressed. For example, compression at the cubital tunnel in the elbow causes damage to the nerve that extends into the hand. You may notice pain and numbness in your fingers as a result.

Symptoms of a nerve condition aren’t always consistent. You may notice they come and go, but with time and severity, interfere with your daily activity and even interrupt sleep.

How are nerve conditions treated?

Treatment for nerve conditions from Central Jersey Hand Surgery depends on the cause of your nerve condition. If you have a mild injury, the nerve may repair itself without any major intervention. Rest and immobilizing the area helps. If your body is putting pressure on a nerve, such as in the case of carpal tunnel, you may need surgery to relieve the nerve.

If you have broken nerve fibers, supportive care that allows the nerve fibers to reattach may be enough. In some cases, surgery is required to expedite healing.

In the case of a cut nerve––when the outer insulation and inner fibers of the nerve are severed––surgery is typically the best treatment. Surgery sews the nerve ends back together, and, with time and physical therapy, you regain function.

For the very best treatment for nerve conditions, call Central Jersey Hand Surgery, or book an appointment online.