Nerve compression is a condition that occurs when the nerves in the body are compressed by surrounding tissues. This situation results from the pressure being applied to the nerves. Prolonged sitting at a computer, lifting heavy objects, sudden movements during sports, or certain chronic diseases can put pressure on the nerves in our body, leading to nerve compression. Symptoms include weakness, tingling, and loss of movement. Imaging tests can be conducted for diagnosis. Treatment options may include painkillers, physical therapy, and surgical intervention. As a precaution, it is important to rest the body regularly, maintain a healthy diet, and exercise.
What is Nerve Compression?
Nerve compression occurs as a result of the nerves in your body being compressed by the surrounding tissues. There are types depending on the tissue where nerve compression occurs. Among these types, the most common are carpal nerve compression and sciatic nerve compression.
Carpal nerve compression can be seen in the hands and palms. The space known as the carpal tunnel can put pressure on the nerves passing through this area. In sciatic nerve compression, it occurs in the lower part of the body, usually as a result of a herniation.
Nerve compression can develop due to different causes. Herniation, fracture, obesity, and bone cracking present in the body can lead to nerve compression.
Common symptoms in people experiencing nerve compression include weakness in the area, movement loss, and pain. Methods such as painkillers, physical therapy, and hot-cold compresses can be effective in alleviating symptoms.
What Causes Nerve Compression?
There is no single cause for nerve compression; it typically arises from a combination of lifestyle, working conditions, and health issues. Besides traumas, rheumatic inflammations, diabetes, obesity, and thyroid diseases, injuries caused by compression and repetitive movements in the limbs can lead to pressure on the nerves from tissues.
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Sprains and fractures
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Traumas
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Disc herniation
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Posture disorders
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Uncontrolled exercise
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Congenital anomalies
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Chronic disorders
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Cyst and tumor formations
What are the Symptoms of Nerve Compression?
The common symptom of nerve compression is pain. In some nerve compressions, pain may not occur. Nerve compression can manifest as tingling and numbness in the fingers, and weakness during the grasp reflex. Additionally, there may be sensitivity to changes in temperature, weakness, and sweating problems.
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Numbness in hands during sleep
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Ache and pain
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Loss of motion and strength
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Loss of sensation
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Symptoms of Nerve Compression in the Hand
Nerve compression in the hand can be observed in carpal tunnel syndrome. Numbness, tingling, and pain that increases at night in the thumb, middle finger, and index finger are typical. Opening jar lids, holding a pen, or using a phone may become difficult in daily activities. In advanced stages, grip strength decreases, and patients begin to drop objects from their hands.
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Symptoms of Nerve Compression in the Arm
Nerve compressions seen in the arm can originate from the shoulder, elbow, or neck. Pain spreading from the shoulder to the hand, weakness in the arm, loss of sensation, and muscle weakness may be observed. Especially those who lift their arms up experience increased pain and tingling. This situation can make dressing, carrying a bag, or driving difficult in daily life.
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Symptoms of Nerve Compression in the Leg
Nerve compressions in the leg can often be caused by a herniated disc. Burning, pricking, or electric shock-like pain is felt in the calf and thigh. There is noticeable imbalance while walking, increased pain after sitting for a long time, and weakness in the leg. In advanced cases, climbing stairs, sitting, and standing up can become difficult.
How is Nerve Compression Diagnosed?
A detailed diagnostic process may be necessary to treat nerve compression correctly. Initially, a physical examination evaluates pain, reflex loss, and muscle strength in the areas where the nerves pass.
By performing an EMG (Electromyography) test, the electrical conduction rate of the nerves is measured, determining which nerve is affected and to what extent. Imaging methods such as MRI and X-rays are used to reveal the pressure exerted by bones and soft tissues on the nerve to support the diagnosis. Laboratory tests can also be used to assess underlying chronic conditions like diabetes or thyroid diseases.
How is Nerve Compression Treated?
Treatment methods for nerve compression may vary depending on the patient's condition; however, the following steps are generally followed:
- Rest: The affected area may need to be rested to reduce discomfort caused by nerve compression.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises and massages performed under the guidance of a physiotherapist can be effective.
- Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, or muscle relaxants may be used.
- Steroid Injections: Steroid injections can help reduce nerve inflammation and swelling.
- Surgical Intervention: Rarely, surgical intervention may be necessary when other treatment methods do not work.
Since nerve compression can be a serious condition that can cause severe pain, if you have symptoms, it is important to consult a specialist healthcare professional.
What are the Exercises for Nerve Compression?
Exercises can help stop the progression of nerve compression, especially in the early phase. However, these movements should definitely be performed under expert supervision.
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Hand and wrist exercises: Opening and closing the fingers, gently stretching the wrist backward and downward.
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Neck exercises: Slowly turning the head to the right-left, bending forward-backward. They can help relax neck muscles for those who work at a desk.
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Back and leg exercises: Pulling the knees to the chest, hamstring stretching exercises. They are effective in nerve compressions due to herniated discs.
If severe pain is felt during exercise, the movements should be stopped, and a doctor should be consulted.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Nerve Compression?
The effective way to prevent nerve compression is to regulate daily life habits. Staying in the same position for a long time will apply extra pressure on the nerves, so attention should be paid to sitting and working arrangements. For those working at a desk, using an ergonomic chair and desk is important for spine health.
Taking regular short breaks during the day, performing stretching exercises, and making time for walking can help the nerves relax. Excess weight can also place additional stress on the nerves, so healthy eating and weight control reduce the risk of nerve compression. All these precautions are effective in both alleviating current complaints and preventing new compressions from occurring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can nerve compression heal on its own?
Mild nerve compressions can improve with rest, lifestyle adjustments, and exercises. However, if symptoms like prolonged numbness, loss of strength, and pain are present, this situation will not heal on its own. If ignored, permanent nerve damage may develop.
What happens if nerve compression is not treated?
Untreated nerve compressions can progress, leading to permanent damage to the nerves. In this case, numbness and pain become chronic, muscle atrophy begins, and the patient finds it difficult to perform daily activities.
Which doctor should be consulted for nerve compression?
For nerve compression, one should consult neurosurgery. The specialty to be consulted may vary depending on the location of the nerve compression. For compressions originating from the wrist and arm, orthopedics is suitable; for those originating from the back and neck, neurosurgery or neurology may be appropriate.
What can be done at home for nerve compression?
Methods that can be applied at home include light exercises, hot-cold applications, and regular rest. However, these methods only provide temporary relief and do not eliminate the cause of the condition. If complaints persist for a long time, it is the correct approach to consult a specialist rather than relying on home applications.