Compressed Neuropathy DSA Flashcards
What is neuropathy?
Functional or pathological changes in the peripheral nervous system
What are biomechanical causes of neuropathy?
- space occupying lesions (ex. cysts)
- degenerative causes
- post traumatic causes (ex. fracture)
- mechanical (ex. muscle spasm)
What are systemic causes of neuropathy?
pregnancy
hypothyroidism
diabetes
Explain the anatomy of a nerve
Describe nerve injuries degrees 1-5
Where can the radial nerve become entrapped?
- high on the humerus
- radial tunnel
- at the wrist
What do we see when the radial n is trapped high on the humerus? what causes this?
What do we see when the radial n is trapped in the radial tunnel? what causes this?
What do we see when the radial n is trapped at the wrist? what causes this?
What sensory sx are present in anterior interosseous syndrome?
none
What test indicates anterior interosseous syndrome?
OK sign –> they can’t do it
tx: elbow can be splinted in 90o of flexion for up to 12 weeks
Pt. has parasthesia of their 4th and 5th digits, medial elbow pain with decreased intrinsic m. strength, sx are reproduced with elbow flexion and wrist extension, what sign do you expect to be positive? how do you treat?
ulnar n. entrapment - cubital tunnel syndrome
+ Tinel’s sign, + Froment’s sign
tx: padded elbow sleeve to limit terminal elbow flexion and provide cushioning
What causes carpal tunnel. syndrome?
medial n. entrapment as it passes under flexor retinaculum
What sx do you see with carpal tunnel syndrome?
nighttime numbness of lateral 3.5 digits, tingling, wrist pain, thenar atrophy
dx: EMG
Compression of the brachial plexus and/or subclavian vessels is known as…
thoracic outlet syndrome
sites of compression:
scalene triangle
costoclavicular passage
pectoralis minor attachment at coracoid process