The Orthopaedic Hand and Arm Center — Plantation, FL
(954) 635-5300
Work Injuries
Nerve Damage
Nerve injuries of the upper extremity range from compression neuropathies (carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel) to complete nerve lacerations from workplace accidents. The median, ulnar, and radial nerves supply sensation and motor function to the entire hand and arm — damage to any of these nerves can have profound functional consequences.
Types of Nerve Injuries
Nerve injuries are classified by severity: neuropraxia (temporary conduction block, full recovery expected), axonotmesis (axon disruption with intact sheath, slow recovery), and neurotmesis (complete nerve division, requires surgical repair).
Work-related nerve injuries include lacerations from sharp tools, stretch injuries from falls, compression from prolonged awkward postures, and injection injuries. Digital nerve lacerations are common in the hand and cause permanent fingertip numbness if not repaired.
Treatment
Compression neuropathies are treated with decompression surgery (carpal tunnel release, cubital tunnel decompression). Complete nerve lacerations require microsurgical repair — primary repair when the nerve ends can be approximated without tension, or nerve grafting when a gap exists.
Nerve recovery is slow — approximately 1 mm per day from the repair site. Sensory re-education and occupational therapy are essential throughout the recovery period. For irreversible nerve injuries, tendon transfers can restore critical hand function.
Common Symptoms
- Numbness or tingling in specific areas
- Weakness of specific muscle groups
- Loss of grip or pinch strength
- Burning or electric pain along the nerve
- Muscle wasting (atrophy)
- Loss of sweating in the affected area
Treatment Options
- Nerve decompression surgery
- Microsurgical nerve repair
- Nerve grafting for gaps
- Nerve conduit for small gaps
- Tendon transfers for irreversible injuries
- Sensory re-education and occupational therapy
- Nerve conduction studies for monitoring recovery
Ready to Get Help?
Dr. Kinchelow specializes in treating nerve damage. Schedule a consultation today.
Request Appointment (954) 635-5300