SYMPTOMS | CAUSES | TREATMENT

Brachial Plexus Neuropathy Syndrome

INTRODUCTION Brachial Plexus Neuropathy Syndrome

Brachial plexus neuropathy syndrome, also termed as brachial plexopathy, is a nerve disorder in the brachial plexus, a bundle of nerves from the spinal cord that separates in to individual shoulder and arm nerves.

The brachial plexus nerves generally originate from the spine region, the syndrome is quite often misdiagnosed as a slipped/compressed disc or cervical spine disorder. 

There’s a condition which is mainly characterized by acute onset of severe pain in the shoulder or arm, followed by regional muscle weakness. It is commonly seen in people of young age groups, affecting males and females evenly and often characterized by repeated, bilateral attacks. 

SYMPTOMS Brachial Plexus Neuropathy Syndrome

The intensity of shoulder or arm pain experienced by the patient may vary, and is initially mistaken for a strain or injury until the patient starts suffering from muscle weakness. However, besides nerve pain, there are many other symptoms, which are as follows: 

Numbness of the shoulder, arm or handRegional muscle weaknessIntense shoulder painTingling, burning, or abnormal sensations in the

affected areaInability to extend or raise the wrist or hand

CAUSES Brachial Plexus Neuropathy Syndrome

Though the actual causes are unknown, there are a few probable factors that may contribute to its occurrence, which are given below. 

Trauma to the areaStretching injuriesParasitic infestationCongenital abnormalitiesExcessive exposure to toxins and radiationsViral infection, especially of the upper respiratory tractBacterial infection like pneumonia, diphtheria, typhoid, etc.Certain vaccinations, including influenza, tetanus,

diphtheria, tetanus toxoids, pertussis DPT, smallpox, etc.

DAIGNOSIS Brachial Plexus Neuropathy Syndrome

Since brachial plexus neuropathy is usually mistaken for some other nerve abnormalities, several diagnostic tests may have to be conducted to identify the condition. The doctor will conduct a neurological exam of the patient in order to diagnose the complex or intricate nerve fibres in the affected area. Further, he may perform an MRI of the area to reveal physical changes in the nerves, and a nerve conduction test to determine the nerves that are not conducting signals properly and where exactly the breakdown in communication is occurring. Nerve biopsies can also be conducted to look out for any structural damage to the nerve.

TREATMENT Brachial Plexus Neuropathy Syndrome

Physical therapy are the most recommended treatment.

Painkillers like acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen can be used.

To reduce stabbing and intense pain, medications like phenytoin, carbamazepine, and gabapentin can be given to the patient.

In severe cases, wherein the syndrome is long-lasting and symptoms get worse, a surgery may be performed to treat the condition.

If condition get worsens, consult a neurologist.