Peripheral Nerve Injury

Peripheral nerve injury refers to damage to the nerves supplying the hand and arm, which can cause numbness, weakness, or pain depending on the nerve involved.

Numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain in the distribution of the affected nerve, ranging from mild sensory changes to complete loss of function.

Lacerations, crush injuries, fractures, stretch injuries, and compression can all damage peripheral nerves.

Seek prompt assessment for any injury with numbness, weakness, or a wound near a major nerve pathway.

Clinical examination of sensation, motor function, and reflexes in the affected limb.

Nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG) assess the location and severity of nerve injury; MRI may be used for certain nerve pathologies.

Observation is appropriate for mild, non-transecting injuries expected to recover spontaneously, with therapy to maintain joint motion.

Surgery is considered for complete nerve transections, injuries not improving over time, or nerves compressed by surrounding tissue.

Surgical options include nerve repair, grafting, or transfer, chosen based on the injury type, location, and time since injury.

Nerve recovery is gradual and can take months to years, with regular follow-up to monitor progress and guide therapy.

Outcomes depend on injury severity, location, and time to treatment; earlier repair generally gives better functional recovery.

Incomplete recovery of sensation or motor function, persistent pain, and rarely worsening of symptoms.