8: Compression Neuropathies

Question 1

three systemic causes of neuropathy

Answer 1

pregnancy, hypothyoid, DM

Question 2

pathological changes that can cause neuropathy

Answer 2

microvascular compression, thickened epineurium, myelin thinning distortion, microtubule closure, axonal degeneration

Question 3

bulging disc

Answer 3

disc is evenly compressed without significant damage to cartilage rings

Question 4

three steps of a herniated disc

Answer 4

1. protrusion: a few cartilage rings are torn
2. extrusion: cartilage rings torn, nucleus pulposus starts to flow towards outer layer of discs
3. herniation: tearing of outer cartilage rings, NP moves posterior/lateral towards vertebral foramen

Question 5

what way does a disc herniate most commonly in the spine?

Answer 5

posterior-lateral

Question 6

Froment’s sign

Answer 6

pt pinches paper between 1st and 2nd digits, normally pts thumb is flat with the paper but with a positive sign, thumb props up

Question 7

What nerve level are the biceps, brachioradialis, and triceps reflexes?

Answer 7

Biceps: C5
Brachioradialis: C6
Triceps: C7

Question 8

Case example for pronator syndrome

Answer 8

Weight lifter

Question 9

Case example for anterior interosseous syndrome

Answer 9

Cast pressure

Question 10

Case example for carpal tunnel syndrome

Answer 10

Gymnasts

Question 11

1st and 3rd MC compression neuropathies

Answer 11

1: carpal tunnel syndrome
2: Common fibular N compression