What causes nerve compression syndromes?
Nerve compression often affects nerves that travel through small openings (called tunnels or canals) in your joints. Tissue swelling or damage puts pressure on the nerve, causing symptoms.
Possible causes of nerve compression syndromes include:
- Accidents and trauma.
- Ankle, knee or wrist sprains.
- Arthritis.
- Broken bones and bone spurs.
- Diabetes.
- Dislocated joints, such as a dislocated elbow or dislocated shoulder.
- Herniated disk.
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland).
- Surgical complications.
- Tumors or cysts.
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Who's at risk for nerve compression syndromes?
Anyone can develop a nerve compression syndrome. Sometimes, the weight from obesity or pregnancy squeezes a nerve. Casts, splints and the use of crutches can also cause nerve problems.
People who do certain jobs or activities that require repetitive joint movements also are more at risk. This includes:
- Assembly line workers.
- Baseball players.
- Bicyclists.
- Construction workers and carpenters.
- Golfers.
- Tennis players.
- Typists.
- Weightlifters.
What are the symptoms of nerve compression syndromes?
Symptoms of nerve compression syndromes tend to come on gradually. The symptoms may come and go and range from mild to severe. These symptoms may get worse when you do activities that pull or press on the nerve.
Nerve compression syndromes cause a variety of symptoms depending on which nerve it affects. You may experience:
- Pain, numbness or tingling in the area of compression (usually a joint like your wrist, elbow or ankle).
- Inability to move a limb, lift your hand or foot, or grasp or hold onto items.
- Limb weakness that affects your ability to do daily tasks or makes you feel clumsy.
- Muscle loss in the affected area.
