Many nerves in the body can become compressed due to a fall, blunt force or a similar injury.
Neurosurgery is a specialty that deals with the brain, but also with other nerve-related injuries, such as compressed nerves. This doctor is specially trained to treat nerve compression to help the patient to alleviate their discomfort and work toward improved function of the affected nerve and the area of the body that it serves.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome is associated with the ulnar nerve. This is the nerve people sometimes refer to as the “funny bone.” This nerve does not have much padding to protect it from compression, so it is prone to this problem. When it is compressed, it can cause:
- Loss of sensation
- Pain
- Weakness
- Tingling
The small and ring fingers are typically where the pins and needles sensation occurs. It is also possible for the affected area to feel clumsy.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome results from pressure on the median nerve. When this condition is left untreated, it can lead to worsening symptoms and nerve damage. The following symptoms are possible:
- Tingling, burning, numbness and pain mostly in the index, ring, thumb and middle fingers
- Shock-like sensations may occur occasionally, affecting the index, ring, thumb and middle fingers
- Tingling or pain that radiates to the shoulder
- Weakness causing the person to drop things
- The affected hand may be clumsy or weak
The symptoms usually begin mild but can progress gradually. In the most severe cases, the person might not be able to use their hand fully. It is also possible for symptoms to worsen at night if someone has their wrist bent when they are sleeping.
Sciatica
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is pinched. This nerve runs from the lower back down through each leg after passing through the buttocks. A herniated disk due to injury is one of the most common causes. Pain is the primary symptom. It may start in the lower back and run down through the leg on the affected side. The pain can be excruciating in some cases. It is also possible to experience tingling, numbness and weakness.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is characterized by compression of the tibial nerve. This nerve is located along the inside of the foot and ankle. The pain caused by this compression is usually at the bottom of the foot and inside the ankle. However, it is possible to experience symptoms in the lower legs and toes too. Other symptoms may include:
- Shooting pain
- Tingling
- Electric shock-like sensations
- Loss of sensation
- Numbness
- Burning
- Reduced ability to bend, fan out and flex the toes
Meralgia Paresthetica
This condition occurs when the lateral cutaneous nerve is compressed. This nerve is located on the outer part of the thigh. Symptoms may include a burning pain on the outer thigh and numbness and tingling in the area.
When a compressed nerve is left undiagnosed and untreated, it has the potential to cause debilitating symptoms. Any person experiencing the symptoms of nerve compression, especially following an injury, should consult with a neurosurgeon as soon as possible. A neurosurgeon understands the delicacy of the nerves so that they can help the patient to heal from their injury.