Entrapment neuropathy, also known as a pinched nerve, is caused by nerve compression and can result in pain and numbness. Common forms include carpal tunnel and cubital tunnel syndromes. Treatment varies based on severity and cause, with options including chiropractic care, physical therapy, and surgery. Other factors, such as tumors or abscesses, can also contribute to entrapment neuropathy. It is important to see a doctor for appropriate treatment.
Entrapment neuropathy is the technical term for nerve pain caused by a nerve being compressed in some way, often by a muscle spasm or inflammation. It is also called a pinched nerve. Common forms of entrapment neuropathy are carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome, which affect the nerves in the wrists and elbows, causing pain and numbness in the hands.
When a nerve is compressed, it can often cause symptoms away from the actual site of the entrapment. For example, pain in the legs and feet may result from entrapment neuropathy in the hip area or thighs, because nerves in these areas carry signals to the rest of the leg. Cubital tunnel syndrome involves a pinched nerve in the elbow, but common symptoms occur on the outer fingers and outer edge of the hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a compression of a nerve in the wrist, but symptoms also occur on the inner fingers and wrist.
In addition to these familial entrapment neuropathies, other types of entrapment can also occur. Similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs due to nerve entrapment neuropathy in the ankle. Symptoms are similar to carpal tunnel syndrome but affect the feet instead of the hands. Sciatica, which causes pain and numbness throughout the hip, legs, and lower back, can also occur as a result of entrapment neuropathy.
Treatment for entrapment neuropathy varies based on the location, cause, and severity of the condition. In some cases, such as sciatica, chiropractic care can help release pressure on the nerve by restoring proper back and spine alignment. Physical therapy can also help reduce pain, strengthen the muscles surrounding the affected area, and reduce or remove pressure on the nerve. Some cases require surgery to remove the structural element pressing against the nerve.
Other factors may contribute to entrapment neuropathy, including the presence of tumors or abscesses. These masses within the body can put pressure on individual nerves or collections of nerves, causing pain and other uncomfortable symptoms. Entrapment neuropathy symptoms can occur due to a number of different problems, so it is very important to see a doctor for appropriate treatment. This is especially true in the case of sciatica, which can be traced to a wide variety of causes, including tumors, entrapment neuropathy, or damage or injury to the nerve itself.
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