nerve compression syndromes
Last reviewed 01/2018
Nerve compression syndromes are common conditions in clinical practice. The incidence seems to be increasing as a result of more occupations with tasks such as manipulation with hands, increased awareness of symptoms of common conditions such as carpal tunnel, and the possible influence of compensation in relation to occupational aetiology. The upper limb tends to be affected more than the lower. Common differentials include a musculoskeletal referred pain, radiculopathy, plexopathy or a CNS disorder. Less frequently, psychological conditions such as somatoform disorder should be considered.
In the upper limb, there are discrete syndromes associated with the compression of the median, ulnar and radial nerves or their branches. These are considered in the submenu.