Upper Limb conditions Flashcards
Neuropraxia
Least severe peripheral nerve injury. The myelin fibres surrounding the acon are damaged vocally
The acon and connective sheath remain unharmed and there is little to no autonomic dysfunction
S&S: Temporary loss of motor and sensory function, Numbness and tingling, Weakness, Loss of function
- Pathophysiology: Neuropraxia is the mildest form of nerve injury and involves a temporary interruption of nerve conduction without structural damage to the nerve. It typically occurs due to compression or stretching of the nerve, leading to impaired nerve function. The nerve fibers remain intact, but there is temporary dysfunction.
- Clinical consequences: Since neuropraxia does not involve structural damage to the nerve fibers, recovery is typically complete, and there is no permanent loss of nerve function. Once the compression or stretching is relieved, nerve conduction resumes, and symptoms resolve.
- Signs and symptoms: Common signs and symptoms of neuropraxia include temporary sensory loss, muscle weakness, and altered reflexes in the affected area. These symptoms are usually localized and may resolve spontaneously within days to weeks once the underlying cause is addressed.
Axonotmesis
Is an axon injjury when the Schwann sheath and connective itssue is maintained. Recovery can occur if compressing force is removed
Causes - Trauma, Tumours, Compression and Fractures
S&S: Loss of motor function, sensation. Muscle atrophy. CHange sin skin colour or texture, Pain due to severity.
- Pathophysiology: Axonotmesis is a more severe form of nerve injury characterized by disruption of the axons (nerve fibers) while preserving the connective tissue framework of the nerve. This type of injury typically results from more severe trauma, such as lacerations, crush injuries, or severe stretching. The connective tissue framework remains intact, allowing for potential nerve regeneration.
- Clinical consequences: In axonotmesis, the recovery of nerve function depends on the ability of the axons to regenerate and reinnervate their target tissues. While the connective tissue framework provides a scaffold for regeneration, the process is slow, and functional recovery may be incomplete. However, with appropriate rehabilitation and supportive measures, significant functional improvement can occur over time.
- Signs and symptoms: Axonotmesis may present with more pronounced sensory loss, muscle weakness, and altered reflexes compared to neuropraxia. The recovery process may be prolonged, with gradual improvement in symptoms over weeks to months as axonal regeneration and reinnervation occur.
Neurotmesis
Most severe tpe of nerve injury, involving the transaction of the nerve. Nerve sheath and complete acon disruption.
Causes: Trauma, surgical injuries severe compression, Stab wound, gunshot wound
S&S: Complete loss of motor function (inability to move affected area), complete loss of sensation, muscle paralysis, loss of reflexes, Visible nerve damage, Possible severe pain.
Cubical Tunnel Syndrome
Damage to the ulnar nerve occurs at the elbow as it passes through the cubical tunne.
Causes: Ganglion, Tumours, Bony spurs, Direct compression.
Tunnel of guyon (Guyon canal syndrome)
Where the ulnar nerve and artery pass.
Guyon canal syndrome occurs when there is a compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve
Causes: Repetitive wrist movements, Fractures/Dislocations, ganglion cysts, Prolonged pressure on the palm of the hand, arthritis
S&S: Numbness and tingling, weakness, pain and discomfort, clawing of the ring and little fingers
Parkinson
- Parkinson’s disease is caused by a loss of nerve cells in part of the brain called the substantia nigra. This leads to a reduction in a chemical called dopamine in the brain.
- Dopamine has a key roll in regulating movement.
- Young adults rarely experience Parkinson’s
- Usually begins later on in life (Around 60 and older)
- Parkinson’s is more common in men then women
- On going exposure to toxins like herbicides may slightly increase you risk of developing this disease
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement and is characterized by a combination of motor and non-motor symptoms. The signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can vary from person to person and may change as the disease progresses. Here are the key signs and symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease:
Motor Symptoms:
1. Tremor: One of the most common early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease is a resting tremor, usually beginning in one hand or arm. The tremor typically appears as a rhythmic shaking or trembling movement, especially when the affected limb is at rest.
2. Bradykinesia: Bradykinesia refers to slowness of movement and is another hallmark symptom of Parkinson’s disease. Individuals with bradykinesia may experience difficulty initiating movements, have reduced arm swing while walking, and perform tasks at a slower pace than usual.
3. Rigidity: Muscle rigidity or stiffness is a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease and can affect various muscle groups throughout the body. Rigidity may cause muscle stiffness, pain, and difficulty with movement, leading to a sensation of “tightness” or “heaviness” in the limbs.
4. Postural Instability: Parkinson’s disease can lead to impaired balance and coordination, resulting in postural instability and an increased risk of falls. Individuals with PD may have difficulty maintaining an upright posture, especially when turning or changing direction.
5. Gait Changes: Changes in gait, such as shuffling or festinating (small, rapid steps), are common in Parkinson’s disease. Gait disturbances may include reduced stride length, difficulty with initiating or stopping walking, and a tendency to stoop forward.
Multiple Sclerosis
- a life long condition that can affect the brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of potential symptoms, including problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance.
- Usually affects people between the ages of 20-50 years
- MS is more common in individuals of Northern European descent e.g. Latvia
- Women are twice as more likely to develop MS as men
Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy aka DMD
- Most common form of muscular dystrophy (a group of progressive muscle disorders that involves weakening and wasting of muscles)
- Most commonly seen in boys
- 1/3 of boys with DMD have this disease as a result of gene mutation
