Nerve compression
Nerve compression can cause pain, tingling, pins and needles, numbness and in severe cases muscle weakness. The most common types of peripheral nerve compression are carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome, which cause numbness and weakness in the hands. Sometimes simple measures like splinting or steroid injection are sufficient to treat these problems but often surgical release of the compression is required and generally results in a complete resolution of symptoms.
Brachial Plexus injury
The Brachial plexus is a complex collection of nerves providing all sensation and movement in the upper limb. Major sporting injuries or motor vehicle accidents can result in injuries to these nerves, resulting in paralysis and numbness of all or part of the arm. Many of these injuries will recover, but for those that do not, nerve grafting or nerve transfer surgery can offer the chance of functional recovery.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Compression of the nerves of the brachial plexus in the thoracic outlet can result in a variety of symptoms, usually including pain the neck and shoulder and numbness in the forearm and hand. Many people suffering from thoracic outlet syndrome will benefit from a course of targeted physiotherapy. Where physio fails, surgical decompression can relieve the symptoms.