Common Entrapment Neuropathies

Abstract

Entrapment neuropathies are defined as compression of peripheral nerves due to known or unknown causes. The high incidence and variety of presentations require a comprehensive knowledge of these conditions, especially in neurology and orthopedic surgery clinical practices. Detailed knowledge of topographic anatomy, clinical manifestations, and appropriate use of electrophysiological studies with selective addition of neuromuscular ultrasonography are needed to establish an early and accurate diagnosis to advice patients and provide them with a comprehensive treatment plan. In this article, we discuss the most common forms of entrapment neuropathies in the upper and lower extremities.

The Effect of Neurodynamic Techniques on the Dispersion of Intraneural Edema: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis

“…They are characterized by positive sensory signs (gain of function), such as neuropathic pain (increased nerve mechanosensitivity, evoked pain and pain attacks), paresthesias and dysesthesias with an intradermatomal and extradermatomal distribution, as well as negative signs, including loss of function, weakness and atrophy [ 1 , 2 ]. One in ten people will develop an entrapment neuropathy at some point [ 3 ], and it is one of the most common causes of neurological consultations in clinical practice [ 4 ] due to the high prevalence of entrapment neuropathy.…”

Most Frequent Compressive Limb Neuropathies: A Literature Review

“…In this region, a structure that is present in some individuals and that constitutes a rare cause of compression of the median nerve is the Struthers ligament, which lies between the supracondylar process and the medial epicondyle of the humerus. 9 In the antecubital region, the nerve travels below the bicipital aponeurosis to the elbow and goes between the heads of the pronator teres muscle, which in itself can be a rarer site of compression. Approximately 4 cm before the medial epicondyle, the main trunk of the median nerve gives rise to the anterior interosseous nerve, which innervates the long flexor of the thumb, the deep flexor of the second and third digits, and the square pronator, and is involved in anterior interosseous syndrome.…”

“…Nerve entrapment usually occurs in the groove for the radial nerve in the humerus. 9 The common sites of compression of the radial nerve are sown in ►Fig. 5.…”

“…In the distal part of the carpal tunnel, the median nerve divides into motor and sensory branches, and it innervates the pronator muscles of the forearm, as well as most of the flexors of the fingers and wrist in the forearm. 9…”

Approach to Neuropathic Pain

“…145 A more detailed review of entrapment neuropathies and focal peripheral NP can be found elsewhere. 12,146,147…”