A nerve entrapment is when a single nerve undergoes direct pressure, which leads to symptoms like pain, numbness, tingling, and reduced sensation in the affected limbs. The severity and symptoms of nerve entrapment can vary depending on the affected nerve and the extent of the compression.
This condition can be caused by repeated external forces, such as continuous postural positions that put pressure on specific nerves. An example of this would be resting your elbows on a table for extended periods.
Physiotherapy to treat nerve entrapment typically involves a combination of approaches aimed at relieving pressure on the nerve and reducing inflammation. This may include joint mobilization techniques to improve joint function and alleviate pressure on the nerve. Stretching exercises can also help release tension and improve flexibility in surrounding muscles and tissues. Additionally, therapeutic ultrasound may be utilized to target and reduce inflammation in the surrounding muscles, providing relief from pain and discomfort associated with nerve entrapment.
Overall, treatment for nerve entrapment aims to alleviate symptoms, improve mobility, and restore normal function to the affected limb.
References
1. Ferre-Martinez, A., Miguel-Pérez, M., Möller, I., Ortiz-Miguel, S., Pérez-Bellmunt, A., Ruiz, N., Sanjuan, X., Agullo, J., Ortiz-Sagristà, J., & Martinoli, C. (2023). Possible Points of Ulnar Nerve Entrapment in the Arm and Forearm: An Ultrasound, Anatomical, and Histological Study. Diagnostics (Basel), 13(7), 1332-. https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics13071332
2. Shen, Y., Li, T., Cai, T., Zhong, J., Guo, J., & Shen, H. (2019). Acupotomy for nerve entrapment syndrome: A systematic review protocol. Medicine (Baltimore), 98(50), e18327–e18327. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000018327
3. Suganthirababu, P., Alagesan, J., Prathap, L., Manikumar, M., Kumaresan, A., & Banu, N. (2019). Action of Ultrasound Therapy in Altering Motor Nerve Conduction Velocity of Ulnar Nerve. Biomedical & Pharmacology Journal, 12(2), 843–848.