Peripheral nerve conditions

The peripheral nerves carry signals between the spinal cord and the arms, legs and the rest of the body. We assess and treat nerve compression, nerve injuries, nerve tumours, nerve pain and spasticity.

Nerve entrapment and compressive syndromes

A nerve squeezed in a tight passage causes numbness, tingling, pain and, in time, weakness.

Carpal tunnel syndrome (median nerve compression at the wrist)
Cubital tunnel syndrome (ulnar nerve compression at the elbow)
Tarsal tunnel syndrome (tibial nerve compression in the ankle)
Peroneal nerve compression (leading to foot drop)
Thoracic outlet syndrome (compression of nerves or vessels in the upper chest and neck)
Occipital neuralgia and other localised nerve compression patterns

Traumatic nerve injuries

Nerves can be cut, stretched or torn. Early assessment matters, because the chance of recovery falls with time.

Brachial plexus injuries (trauma, high-velocity accidents or birth-related palsies)
Lumbosacral plexus and sciatic nerve injuries
Severed, stretched or torn nerves from motor vehicle crashes, falls or sports injuries

Peripheral nerve tumours

Growths arising from a nerve or its covering. Most are benign.

Benign nerve sheath tumours such as schwannomas and neurofibromas, including cases related to neurofibromatosis type 1 or type 2

Chronic pain and neuropathic syndromes

Pain that comes from the nerves themselves and persists despite standard treatment.

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and intractable focal or post-surgical pain, managed with neuromodulation (spinal cord or peripheral nerve stimulation)
Neuromas or painful nerve endings following amputation or mastectomy, treated with techniques such as regenerative peripheral nerve interface (RPNI) or targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR)

Spasticity and movement-related conditions

Abnormal muscle tightness or involuntary movement that limits function and comfort.

Cervical dystonia or torticollis
Selective neurotomies and rhizotomies to manage severe spasticity

How we assess nerve problems

A detailed history and examination of strength, sensation and reflexes
Nerve conduction studies and EMG, carried out at the Centre, to locate the problem and measure its severity
MRI or ultrasound imaging where needed
A plan that starts with the simplest effective treatment and moves to surgery only when it is needed

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This page gives general information and does not replace a consultation.

Reviewed by Dr Serge Eddy Mba, Spine Neurosurgeon