What Is Nerve Compression?
In order for limbs such as the arms, legs, hands, and feet to move flawlessly, proper nerve transmission is essential. The nerves responsible for these functions may sometimes become compressed, particularly in the narrow passages they travel through to reach the muscles of the hands and feet. All such conditions are collectively referred to as nerve compression.
What Causes Nerve Compression?
The most common nerve compression disorder is carpal tunnel syndrome, which occurs in the median region of the wrist. Compression can also occur in the ulnar nerve, found at the outer side of the elbow or on the palm side near the little finger, and in the peroneal nerve on the outer side of the knee or under the inner ankle bone of the foot. Other causes include:
- Broken or dislocated bones
- Diabetes, thyroid disorders, obesity, menopause
- Rheumatic diseases
- Poor posture, improper sitting, and repetitive incorrect movements
Nerve compression is more frequently seen in individuals aged between 40 and 60, and in occupations or activities involving intensive hand use, such as pianists, computer operators, bankers, sculptors, dentists, and housewives.
What Are the Symptoms of Nerve Compression?
The most prominent symptom is hand numbness that awakens the patient at night. Although pain may be present, numbness is more dominant. If left untreated, symptoms may progress, leading to muscle weakness in the fingers and objects beginning to fall from the hand.
In people who wear narrow or high-heeled shoes, similar symptoms can develop in the ankle and toes, a condition known as tarsal tunnel syndrome. Numbness and pain may also occur in the ankle and toes.
When nerve compression affects the hands, patients may experience difficulty in performing daily tasks such as carrying bags, writing, or holding cups. In more advanced cases involving the legs, the patient may struggle to walk or may begin dragging their foot, which can lead to difficulty climbing stairs or driving.
How Is Nerve Compression Diagnosed?
A detailed medical history should be taken from the patient. A physical examination should assess sensory perception, reflexes, and muscle strength. In both carpal and tarsal tunnel syndromes, diagnosis is often possible during the initial examination. An EMG (electromyography) test may be performed, especially to detect early-stage cases where muscle weakness has not yet occurred.
How Is Nerve Compression Treated?
If there is no muscle weakness or the condition has not advanced, conservative medical treatment is preferred. Splints, anti-inflammatory medications, injections, and physical therapy can be used to relieve the compressed nerve area.
In physical therapy and rehabilitation, the most commonly used methods include hydrotherapy, ultrasound, paraffin therapy, laser, and magnetic field therapy.
If the patient does not recover with rest, rehabilitation, and other treatment methods, and if tests reveal severe nerve compression, surgical intervention may be considered.
How Can We Prevent Nerve Compression?
- Pay attention to posture while sitting, lying, and standing; avoid maintaining poor positions for extended periods (e.g., crossing legs or sitting cross-legged).
- Housewives should avoid repetitive and forceful hand movements such as wringing cloths, needlework, or window cleaning.
- Those who frequently use keyboards or a mouse should avoid keeping their wrists bent for long periods.
- Do not rest your elbows on the table or other surfaces while working.
- Avoid carrying heavy loads with your hands and keep wrists in a neutral position.
- Regular stretching and strengthening exercises should be performed to maintain joint, ligament, and muscle health.
- Routine check-ups should not be neglected in the presence of diabetes, thyroid, or rheumatic diseases.