Peripheral Nerve Injury or Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral Nerve Injury or Peripheral Neuropathy

It is defined as the injury or damage of peripheral nerves which convey brain and spinal cord message to the rest of the body. It is also called peripheral neuropathy.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms include:

• Breathing problems
• Problem in walking, talking and in holding objects
• Trouble in sensation of pain and temperature
• Problem in thyroid function and digestion

Causes

Causes of Peripheral nerve injuries include:

• Trauma
• Compression
• Diabetes and carpal tunnel
• Autoimmune disorder

Diagnosis

After checking medical history and conducting motor examination your doctor will recommend the following tests:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the detailed images of the affected nerve.
• Electromyography to record brain electrical activity.
• Nerve conduction study

Treatment

Treatment includes:

• Sometime nerves heal on its own without any treatment.
• Pain relievers to reduce pain.
• Physical therapy to prevent stiffness
• Nerve grafting
• Braces or splints