Mononeuropathy is a condition where one nerve in the body is damaged, often caused by injury or pressure. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, and pain. Rest and avoiding pressure can help, while severe cases may require surgery and physical therapy. Common nerves affected include the median nerve in the wrist and the ulnar nerve in the elbow. Treatment depends on the cause, with options including rest, medication, and surgery.
Mononeuropathy is a condition in which a single nerve in the body becomes damaged. Most cases of mononeuropathy are caused by direct injury, pressure on the nerve, or local disorders such as cancer or hematoma. A person with nerve damage might experience a tingling sensation, numbness, or prolonged pain. Symptoms tend to fade over time with rest and the avoidance of any activity that puts pressure on the nerve. In cases of severe nerve damage, surgery and physical therapy are helpful in relieving pressure and strengthening the muscles at the site of the problem.
A person experiences mononeuropathy when a force puts constant pressure on the nerve. Compression can be caused by very mundane actions, such as crossing your legs or typing on a computer for an extended period of time. Injuries from falls or other accidents that cause internal swelling can also put pressure on nerves, as can internal tumors or collections of blood called hematomas. Most people experience a tingling sensation that can last from a few seconds to several hours at a time if the pressure cannot be relieved. Muscle stiffening, weakness, and dull ache also commonly occur.
Mononeuropathy can occur anywhere in the body, but doctors have identified several nerves that are more prone to the condition. The median nerve in the wrist is often compressed due to repetitive hand movements in a condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome. When the ulnar nerve that runs up the elbow is affected, doctors diagnose cubital tunnel syndrome. Nerve problems in the lower legs and feet are considered fibular monoeuropathies.
Doctors usually try to identify and treat the underlying cause of mononeuropathy to provide relief. A doctor may conduct a physical exam to feel the muscles around the nerve to check for tension and weakness. In many cases, patients undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests so that doctors can check for lesions, tumors, or other disorders that may be putting pressure on the nerve. Once the cause of mononeuropathy is accurately diagnosed, doctors can determine the correct course of treatment.
If your symptoms are caused by pressure and overuse, simply resting the body part and taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can be effective in relieving the discomfort. A person with carpal tunnel syndrome, for example, is usually instructed to avoid activities that cause pain and numbness, such as typing or writing. A patient may need to wear a brace or splint to help protect the muscles and prevent excessive pressure on the nerve. Simple physical therapy exercises can be helpful in rebuilding muscle strength after symptoms subside. With treatment and care, mild mononeuropathies can usually be relieved within months.
Other causes require different approaches to treatment. You may need surgery to remove a tumor or other abnormal mass that is putting pressure on a nerve. Infections are usually treated with oral or intravenous antibiotics, and bruising can be fought with blood-thinning medications. Timely diagnosis and careful treatment can ensure that a patient fully regains strength and control of the affected body part.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
