Hand neuropathy symptoms. Polyneuropathy of the upper extremities, symptoms, treatment

Polyneuropathy of the upper and lower extremities (peripheral neuropathy) is a disease that affects the human nervous system and impairs the sense of sensation, balance, and the function of glands or organs of the body, depending on the type of nerves involved.

With polyneuropathy of the upper and lower extremities, identifying symptoms and their treatment is a complex process that requires a systematic approach.

Peripheral neuropathy has a number of systemic, metabolic and toxic causes. The most common treatable causes include diabetes, hypothyroidism, and nutritional deficiencies.

Common causes of peripheral neuropathy also often include:

systemic diseases (for example, diabetes);
lack of vitamins;
radiation (chemotherapy);
drug therapy (for example, antibiotics);
traumatic injuries;
local decrease in blood supply to organs (ischemia);
excessive use of alcohol or drugs;
diseases of the immune system;
viral infection;
genetic or idiopathic (unspecified) causes.

The term peripheral neuropathy (polyneuropathy) is typically used to describe multiple, symmetrical and universal damage to adjacent nerves in the distal upper and lower extremities.

Peripheral neuropathy can be chronic, where symptoms develop gradually, or acute, with sudden onset, rapid disease progression, and slow resolution.

It is worth noting that there is a symptom of which is associated with a pronounced loss of sensation in the lower extremities in general and the feet in particular.

See more about lower extremity neuropathy.

Read about the symptoms of lower extremity neuropathy.

Symptoms

In the early stages of peripheral neuropathy, the disease can cause progressive painful symptoms, muscle twitching, muscle loss, bone degeneration, and skin changes in the patient.

Upper limb lesions

Neuropathy can cause numbness in the hands, decreased sensitivity to changes in temperature and pain, spontaneous tingling or burning pain and burning, and cutaneous allodynia—severe pain from normal irritation, such as light touch.

Illustration of the ulnar nerve of the upper limb

Lesions of the lower extremities

Motor neuropathies can cause numbness of the lower extremities, impaired balance and coordination of the body, decreased ankle reflexes and distal sensation, and most often, muscle weakness and motor muscle atrophy.

Acute neuropathies require urgent diagnosis, because In this case, the motor, sensory, or autonomic nerves that control automatic body functions, including heart rate, body temperature, and breathing, may be affected.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of polyneuropathy requires a thorough clinical examination, laboratory and electrodiagnostic tests, or nerve biopsy if the diagnosis remains unclear.

A systematic diagnostic approach begins with locating the lesion in the peripheral nerves, identifying the underlying causes (etiology of the disease), and excluding potentially treatable problems.

Initial blood tests for the disease include:

complete blood count;
comprehensive metabolic blood profile;
level of vitamin B 12 and thyroid-stimulating hormone in the blood;
measurement of erythrocyte sedimentation rate and fasting blood glucose.

If there are clinical indications, specialized tests are also prescribed.

Electrodiagnostic testing, including nerve conduction studies and electromyography, can help differentiate the disease into demyelinating or mixed neuropathy.

For symptoms of distal numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness, the first step is to determine whether these symptoms are the result of peripheral neuropathy or CNS involvement.

A 128 Hz medical tuning fork is used to test vibration sensations in the limbs.

Loss of sensation (including vibration) and impaired sense of position of body parts (proprioception) are determined using an injection in the distal parts of the limbs to identify peripheral neuropathy.

Nerve conduction studies (EMG) evaluate the shape, amplitude, latency, and conduction velocity of the electrical signal passing through a nerve.

Electrodiagnostic testing can help determine whether neuropathy is the result of damage to the axons (axonal neuropathy) or the myelin sheath of the nerves (demyelinating neuropathy), or damage to both types of nerves (mixed neuropathy).

Nerve conduction studies and EMGs that have normal results can significantly reduce the likelihood of peripheral neuropathy, while abnormal nerve conduction results can confirm the diagnosis.

A potential limitation of electrodiagnostic studies is that they can only test large nerve fibers and limited neuropathy of small nerve fibers, i.e. fibers responsible for pain, body temperature and autonomic functions of the body.

In cases of small nerve fiber neuropathy, specialized tests are performed aimed at analyzing the autonomic functions of the body, for example, epidermal skin biopsy.

An epidermal skin biopsy may be performed in patients with burning, numbness, and pain in which small, unmyelinated nerve fibers are the cause of the disease.

Lumbar puncture and cerebrospinal fluid analysis may be helpful in the diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome and chronic inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy.

When studies cannot determine the exact cause of the disease, and electrodiagnostic studies indicate symmetrical peripheral neuropathy, the presumptive diagnosis in this case is idiopathic peripheral neuropathy.

Minor nerve fiber injuries may represent the earliest stages of some peripheral neuropathies.

Treatment

Treatment of neuropathy is usually considered in the context of the underlying disease, correcting nutritional deficiencies in the body, and providing symptomatic therapy for the disease.

Treating the underlying condition often helps control the symptoms of neuropathy.

Symptomatic drugs

For peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes or prediabetes, managing blood sugar levels is key to treating nerve symptoms.

For peripheral neuropathy associated with vitamin deficiency, the prognosis of therapy is considered positive.

For neuropathy caused by immune diseases, intravenous injections of immunoglobulin or steroids are used.

CNS-acting drugs are useful in managing neuropathic pain.

Common treatments for neuropathy include:

Tricyclic antidepressants, in particular Nortriptyline and Amitriptyline.
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, in particular Duloxetine.
Antiepileptic therapy, including Gabapentin, Pregabalin, Sodium Valproate.

Research data also supports the beneficial effects of Cannabis on neuropathic pain.

Other therapies

Nerve therapy with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation may be effective and safe in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Significant improvement in pain reduction was found in 38% of patients treated with this method.

Treatment remains effective even after long-term use, but symptoms return to baseline within about a month after stopping treatment.

Acute inflammatory neuropathies require urgent and aggressive management with immunoglobulin or plasmapheresis (blood purification).

Mechanical ventilation is performed in patients whose forced vital capacity is less than 20 ml per kg of weight, or whose lung capacity decreases by more than 30% of the baseline level.

Patients with suspected drug-induced neuropathy should be assessed for the risks of substance abuse before initiating long-term opioid therapy.

Other supportive measures may be helpful, such as foot care, weight loss, and appropriate walking shoes.

Physical therapy can reduce muscle stiffness and prevent joint stiffness. Physical and occupational therapists may also recommend other helpful assistive devices to relieve symptoms.

Conclusion

If the cause of polyneuropathy of the upper and lower extremities cannot be eliminated, treatment focuses on relieving the pain and problems associated with the patient's muscle weakness.

Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of the nerve damage and the extent of the associated damage.

In some cases, treating the underlying cause may improve the person's condition, but in others the damage remains permanent or the symptoms of the disease may gradually worsen.

Video on the topic

Main symptoms:

Polyneuropathy is a complex of disorders characterized by damage to motor, sensory and autonomic nerve fibers. The main feature of the disease is that a large number of nerves are involved in the pathogenic process. Regardless of the type of illness, it manifests itself in weakness and atrophy of the muscles of the lower or upper extremities, lack of sensitivity to low and high temperatures, and the occurrence of painful and uncomfortable sensations. Paralysis, complete or partial, is often expressed.

At the first stage, the distal portions of the nerves are affected, and as the disease progresses, the pathological process spreads to the deeper layers of the nerve fiber. Sometimes hereditary polyneuropathy occurs. It begins to appear in the first or second decade of a person’s life. When diagnosing, the causes of this disease are taken into account, a neurological examination and laboratory examination of blood tests are carried out. The main goals of treatment are to reduce symptoms and eliminate the main factor that caused the disorder.

Etiology

This disorder can develop from exposure to various factors:

genetic predisposition;
immunity disorders, when the body begins to attack its own muscles and nerve fibers, producing immune antibodies;
chemical elements, medicines or alcoholic beverages;
infectious processes of the body, for example, with or;
malignant neoplasms;
systemic ailments, including;
lack of B vitamins in the body;
autoimmune diseases, for example, Guillain-Barre syndrome.

Varieties

Depending on the mechanism of damage to the nerves of the muscles of the lower and upper extremities, polyneuropathy is divided into:

demyelinating - development occurs against the background of the breakdown of myelin, a specific substance that envelops the nerves and ensures rapid transmission of impulses. This type is characterized by the most favorable prognosis, subject to timely consultation with a doctor and effective treatment;
axonal - the disease develops against the background of damage to the axon, which is the core of the nerve that supplies it. The course of this type of illness is more severe. Treatment is successful, but long-term;
neuropathic – the disease is formed due to pathological effects on the bodies of nerve cells.

Due to a violation of one or another nerve function, polyneuropathy occurs:

sensory – due to the pathogenic process, the sensitivity of the nerves is disrupted. Externally, this is manifested by a feeling of burning and numbness of the limbs;
motor – signs of damage to motor fibers are observed. The symptom is muscle weakness;
sensory-motor – symptoms of the two above forms appear;
vegetative - this results in damage to the nerves responsible for ensuring the normal functioning of internal organs and systems. Signs by which this can be detected are increased sweating, increased heart rate and;
mixed - there are signs of damage to all types of nerves.

According to etiology, this inflammatory disease is divided into the following types:

idiopathic - the reasons for its manifestation are not fully known, but disorders of the immune system cannot be ruled out;
hereditary;
diabetic – develops against the background of complicated diabetes mellitus;
dismetabolic – as a consequence of metabolic disorders;
toxic – occurs against the background of poisoning with chemicals;
post-infectious – expressed due to a person’s illness with HIV infection or diphtheria;
paraneoplastic - development occurs in parallel with cancer;
systemic – occurs during systemic connective tissue disorders.

Symptoms

The various causes that cause polyneuropathy primarily lead to irritation of the nerve fibers of the muscles of the limbs, and as it progresses, they lead to the appearance of disorders in the functioning of the nerves. The first symptoms of polyneuropathy include:

pronounced trembling of the hands or feet;
involuntary twitching of muscle structures, noticeable to surrounding people;
the occurrence of painful cramps;
expression of pain of varying intensity;
sensation of “goosebumps” on the skin;
increase in blood pressure.

Symptoms of nerve dysfunction are:

muscle weakness;
muscle thinning;
decreased muscle tone;
attacks of severe dizziness;
cardiopalmus;
dry skin of the affected limbs;
constipation;
significant hair loss in the pathological area;
decreased or complete loss of sensation in the tips of the fingers and toes.

Complications

If you do not contact a specialist for qualified help in a timely manner, the following consequences may develop from the inflammatory process in the nerves of the upper and lower extremities:

impaired motor function - observed with severe weakness, especially with diabetic polyneuropathy;
damage to the nerves responsible for the respiratory process, which can lead to oxygen deficiency;
sudden cardiac death - caused by heartbeat disturbances.

Diagnostic measures

An important step in establishing a diagnosis is to identify the cause that led to the appearance of polyneuropathy. This can be achieved through the following measures:

collecting detailed information about the course of the disease. This is necessary in order to identify the predisposing factor. For example, in hereditary or diabetic forms of the disorder, symptoms develop rather slowly;
a neurological examination, with the help of which it is possible to determine the location of unpleasant symptoms in the form of burning or numbness;
a blood test, thanks to which it is possible to detect the presence of chemical elements, as well as establish the level of sugar, urea and creatinine;
Electroneuromyography is a technique that allows you to evaluate the speed of impulse transmission through the nerves of the lower and upper extremities;
nerve biopsy – carried out for microscopic examination of a small piece of nerve;
additional consultations with specialists such as a therapist and an endocrinologist, in cases of such a disease in pregnant women - an obstetrician-gynecologist. If the patient is a child, an additional examination by a pediatrician is necessary.

After receiving all the test results, the specialist prescribes the most effective tactics for treating the inflammatory process of the upper and lower extremities.

Treatment

In hereditary polyneuropathy, treatment is aimed only at eliminating unpleasant symptoms, and in cases of diabetic, alcoholic or drug-induced polyneuropathy, at reducing the manifestation of symptoms and slowing down the development of the process. Complex treatment of polyneuropathy includes:

prescription of medications. Depending on the cause, these may be glucocorticosteroids, immunoglobulins, painkillers and blood sugar-lowering medications;
performing a kidney transplant for a dysmetabolic type of disorder;
limiting contact with toxins;
surgery to remove malignant tumors;
taking antibiotics to eliminate inflammatory or infectious processes in the body;
injections of B vitamins;
Wearing orthoses to support the lower or upper limbs if there is severe weakness.

Prevention

To prevent a person from developing a disease such as polyneuropathy, it is necessary to adhere to simple rules:

lead a healthy lifestyle, stop drinking alcohol;
protect yourself as best as possible from toxins when working with them;
control blood sugar levels;
take medications only as prescribed by a doctor;
undergo a preventive examination at the clinic several times a year.

In most cases, the prognosis after recovery is positive. Exceptions are patients with hereditary inflammation of the lower and upper extremities, for whom it is not possible to achieve complete recovery. People with diabetic polyneuropathy are at high risk of relapse of the disease.

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Answer only if you have proven medical knowledge

Neuropathy of the upper extremities is a complex of diseases that lead to the development of a characteristic clinical picture in the form of impaired sensitivity and motor activity. Quite well studied symptoms of neuropathy of the upper extremities allow treatment to be carried out as quickly and effectively as possible. For this purpose, an integrated approach is used, which includes traditional and manual therapy, medications and massage, therapeutic exercises and kinesiotherapy.

Typically, neuropathy of the upper extremities is associated with the development of tunnel syndromes. This may be a lesion of the carpal valve, carpal tunnel, cubital meatus, or pronator teres syndrome. nerve fibers can be damaged due to traumatic effects, compression by clothing, inflammatory processes, internal hematomas, etc. In principle, the localization of the pathological process can be any. The higher it is and the closer to the cervical spine, the larger part of the arm gives symptoms of impaired sensitivity and motor activity.

Classic symptoms of this disease include paresthesia, impaired skin sensitivity, painful pulling and twisting pain, etc. Therefore, it is not difficult for an experienced neurologist to make an accurate diagnosis.

If you have symptoms of upper extremity neuropathy, we invite you to a free consultation with a neurologist at our manual therapy clinic. An experienced doctor works here, who during the appointment will conduct an examination, do a series of diagnostic tests and make a diagnosis. You will then be provided with individual recommendations for complex therapy.

Causes of upper limb neuropathy

There are various everyday, traumatic, inflammatory and degenerative causes of neuropathy of the upper extremities; we will try to consider them in more detail. First of all, it is worth understanding that any neuropathy is a lack of innervation of one or another part of the arm for which one or another branch is responsible. Based on typical signs, it is easy to determine which nerve is affected and in what approximate location. And due to knowledge of the anatomy of the upper limb (location of muscles, tendons and ligaments), the doctor will be able to accurately diagnose and prescribe treatment. But to achieve a positive result, it is important to first eliminate the cause of the pathology.

Potential risk factors for nerve fiber damage include the following diseases:

osteochondrosis of the cervical spine and accompanying protrusions, intervertebral hernias, vertebral instability;
inflammation of the lymph nodes of the axillary group;
degenerative processes in the cavity of the humerus and glenohumeral joint of the bones;
injuries of the shoulder, forearm, hand;
habitual dislocation of the shoulder with deformation of the internal labrum;
bone fractures and cracks;
synovitis, tendovaginitis, bursitis and other inflammatory processes leading to swelling of soft tissues and compression of nerves;
scar changes in tendon, ligament, muscle and connective tissue;
tunnel syndromes (narrowing of those places in which the large branches of the brachial nerve pass);
arthrosis, arthritis and other joint diseases;
tumors in the area of the shoulder, elbow, wrist joints;
tuberculosis and other dangerous infections that affect the cartilage tissue of the musculoskeletal system of the human body.

In addition, neuropathy of the upper extremities may be associated with trophic and endocrine disorders. Toxic, alcoholic and diabetic neuropathy is often diagnosed. In this case, the atrophy of the nerve fiber is influenced by the effects of poisons and toxins, regularly taken alcohol, and elevated blood sugar levels.

In elderly patients, the predominant cause of neuropathy of the upper extremities is atherosclerosis of blood vessels and their narrowing with partial obstruction. Such conditions often cause disruption of tissue trophism. Partial dystrophy of the muscle fiber occurs, axonal tissue ceases to receive sufficient blood supply and loses its usual functions.

Constant intoxication always provokes disruption of innervation and secondary muscle dystrophy. Raising blood sugar levels works in a similar way. This stimulates the production of cortisol, which constricts small blood vessels.

In young active people, the main cause of neuropathy of the upper extremities is tunnel syndromes. In second place in terms of prevalence is vitamin and mineral deficiency. A similar syndrome is typical for young girls who regularly “diet.” Their diet lacks foods containing all B vitamins. In combination with insufficient intake of potassium and magnesium, this condition leads to nerve fiber atrophy. It is very difficult to identify such a disease, since it is often disguised as carpal tunnel syndrome, carpal tunnel or cubital space. A biochemical detailed blood test and a series of x-rays help in diagnosis.

Sensory neuropathy of the median and other nerves of the upper extremities

Sensory neuropathy of the upper extremities is the most common form of the disease. Impaired motor activity develops at later stages and is accompanied by persistent contractures of the joints of the arms and hands.

Neuropathy of the upper extremities is also divided according to the types of damage to the branches of the nerve fiber. Most often diagnosed:

neuropathy of the median nerve of the upper extremities;
damage to the radial nerve in the carpal tunnel;
pinching of the ulnar nerve in the capital canal.

Nephropathies of the brachial and carpal nerves are less common. But you shouldn’t discount the possibility of their appearance.

Median nerve neuropathy can affect different areas of the arm. N. medianus originates from the radicular nerves extending between the C5-Th1 vertebrae. then the axons are directed to the axillary region, where, with severe lymphadenopathy (enlargement of the lymph nodes of the axillary group), primary compression may occur. When leaving the axillary zone, the nerve passes along the inner surface of the shoulder under the pronator teres and exits into the projection of the forearm. Accordingly, with pronator teres syndrome, it becomes pinched and neuropathy develops.

Also in the area of the elbow joint, the median nerve gives off medial branches responsible for the innervation of the muscles of the forearm. Accordingly, with pronator teres syndrome, patients primarily note muscle weakness of the forearm, numbness and tingling in this area.

After passing through the carpal tunnel, the median nerve splits into bundles. They are responsible for the innervation of the thumb, index and middle fingers. When the median nerve is compressed in the carpal tunnel, there is a disruption of the innervation of part of the palm and these three fingers.

Neuropathy of the radial and ulnar nerve also has characteristic symptoms. The ulnar nerve is responsible for innervation of the little and ring fingers. With its neuropathy in the initial stages of the disease, there is a violation of innervation, pain, convulsions, and a lack of ability to perform fine motor movements.

Symptoms of upper limb neuropathy

As it develops, neuropathy of the upper extremities gives various symptoms, which can manifest themselves in the form of pain, paresthesia, impaired sensitivity and motor activity. The first signs are very difficult to notice, since they are hidden behind the sensations of rapid muscle fatigue, weakness, and inaccuracy in performing finger movements. Most patients attribute these manifestations to fatigue, increased physical activity, incorrectly chosen position for night rest, etc.

After some time, the symptoms of neuropathy of the upper extremities become more typical for this disease:

pain appears first after performing certain operations (for example, after prolonged work at the computer), then unpleasant sensations are present almost constantly;
pain and tension in the muscles of the upper limbs intensify in the evening, reach their peak during bedtime, and may be completely absent in the morning;
numbness of certain areas is combined with paresthesia (a feeling of crawling);
decreased muscle strength;
increased fatigue of the arm muscles when performing habitual physical work;
impairment of motor activity;
development of contractures in the joints of the fingers at a late stage.

With prolonged development of neuropathy of the upper extremities, paresis, plegia, and muscle paralysis may occur. It will be very difficult to restore their functionality later. Therefore, it is necessary to start treatment in the early stages of the disease.

Before treating upper limb neuropathy

It is important to understand that before treating neuropathy of the upper extremities, it is necessary to identify and eliminate the cause of the development of this disease. If this is not done, then all the efforts of the doctor and the patient will be completely in vain.

In this regard, in our manual therapy clinic, during the initial examination, the doctor takes an anamnesis. Based on the information received from the patient, the doctor makes initial conclusions about the potential causes of neuropathy. Then a series of diagnostic examinations are prescribed, which make it possible to confirm or refute the preliminary conclusions.

If the cause is osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, then concomitant treatment of this degenerative disease is necessary. If neuropathy is associated with diabetes mellitus or excess body weight, then it is necessary to correct the diet. When identifying an occupational hazard factor, it is important to take measures to improve the ergonomics of your workplace. If this is impossible, then a change of place of work and type of professional activity is indicated.

Treatment of upper limb neuropathy

Complex treatment of neuropathy of the upper extremities includes the mandatory elimination of the etiological factor (cause of the disease), restoration of the structure of the nerve fiber, improvement of microcirculation of blood and lymphatic fluid in the affected area.

In such cases, official medicine uses complex vitamin preparations, reparative agents, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory substances. To improve the conduction of nerve impulses, injections of proserin may be prescribed.

Manual therapy uses the following techniques:

massage and osteopathy to improve blood supply and innervation of tissues;
reflexology to accelerate tissue repair processes;
therapeutic exercises and kinesiotherapy;
laser and electromagnetic influence.

In our manual therapy clinic, the course of treatment is always developed strictly individually. After examining and examining the patient, the doctor offers him a special course of therapy and gives individual recommendations. All procedures are carried out under the supervision of the attending physician.

We invite you to a free initial consultation with a neurologist at our manual therapy clinic. Make an appointment at a time convenient for you.

Polyneuropathy is a dangerous and serious disease that primarily affects the peripheral nervous system. This disease can lead to weakness of the limbs, loss of sensitivity, flaccid paralysis and other unpleasant consequences.

In older people, this disease occurs several times more often. Polyneuropathy does not go away on its own and can progress, so timely diagnosis and properly selected treatment are necessary.

What is polyneuropathy and why does it occur?

Polyneuropathy of the hands occurs due to damage to the nervous system and leads to paralysis

Nerves are conductors that carry signals from the brain to other parts of the body. If conductivity is impaired, sensitivity problems arise. Polyneuropathy is translated as a disease of many nerves. With this disease, several branches of the peripheral nervous system are affected at once. The disease leads to impaired motor function of the limbs.

To find out how polyneuropathy of the upper extremities manifests itself, symptoms, treatment and prognosis of this disease, you need to consult a neurologist. The course of the disease can be varied: slow and unnoticeable or rapid and lightning fast.

Polyneuropathy often develops against the background of another disease. The causes of the development of the disease may be:

It is known that polyneuropathy can be hereditary. It is not the disease itself that can be transmitted genetically, but the predisposition to it.

Polyneuropathy of the upper extremities cannot be called a common disease. It is diagnosed in approximately 2.5% of people. In older age, the disease is more common (approximately 8%).

Main symptoms of the disease

The disease has a rather characteristic clinical picture, but the intensity of its manifestation depends on the stage of the disease, its characteristics, and the state of the body. At first, the signs may be mild. First, irritation of the nerve fibers occurs, and then their conductivity is disrupted.

At first, the only symptoms may be weakness in the limbs and pale skin. As a rule, with such manifestations no one goes to the doctor. Then the disease begins to progress, leading to various complications. The sooner the diagnosis is made and treatment is started, the lower the likelihood of unpleasant consequences developing.

Symptoms characteristic of polyneuropathy of the upper extremities include:

Muscle weakness. Polyneuropathy is often accompanied by muscle weakness and muscle fiber atrophy. First, weakness of the hand appears, and then the entire arm. Habitual loads become impossible.
Tremor. As the disease progresses and muscle weakness occurs, tremor appears, which is expressed in involuntary and constant trembling of the hands.
Hypesthesia. Hypoesthesia is a decrease or complete disappearance of skin sensitivity in the extremities. As a rule, this only affects the hands; the rest of the arm remains sensitive.
Hypohidrosis. Due to disruption of nerve function, increased dryness of the skin of the hands is observed.
Severe pain. Soreness in the hands may not be observed immediately. As a rule, the pain is quite intense, spontaneous, and appears and disappears for no apparent reason.
Slow tissue regeneration. Skin damage, wounds, and scratches on the hands take much longer to heal than usual.
. Swelling may appear in the extremities due to excess fluid accumulation and disruption of the cardiovascular system. Swelling appears symmetrically on both arms.
Sweating. As a rule, the sweating function is impaired, so the skin on the extremities sweats constantly, regardless of the ambient temperature.

Polyneuropathy may be accompanied by symptoms not related to the movement or function of the limbs. For example, quite often the patient experiences shortness of breath, problems with blood vessels, as well as disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract, constipation, etc.

Types of neuritis of the upper extremities and their features

To choose the right treatment, it is necessary to determine the stage and form of the disease. Polyneuropathy has several varieties:

Sensory. With sensory polyneuropathy, sensitivity is primarily impaired. The patient experiences goosebumps, tingling and other unusual sensations in the area of the affected limb. The palm may become numb or, on the contrary, burn.
Motor. The main symptoms of motor polyneuropathy are impaired motor functions. The patient has difficulty raising his arm or cannot rotate his hand or bend his fingers. This is associated with progressive muscle atrophy.
Sensorimotor. This type of polyneuropathy combines sensory and motor disorders and is more common than all others.
Vegetative. With autonomic polyneuropathy, all symptoms are associated with damage to the autonomic nervous system, that is, sweating, pallor, as well as signs not related to the limbs. In this case, the nerves that control the functioning of various internal organs are affected.
Mixed. With mixed polyneuropathy, the damage is extensive, so all of the above symptoms appear, gradually or simultaneously.

If we talk about polyneuropathy of the upper extremities, then there is also a classification depending on the affected nerve. For example, there is neuropathy of the radial nerve, which runs through the entire arm. In this case, the symptoms will depend on the specific affected area. Drop hand syndrome often occurs, that is, the hand simply hangs when you raise your arm up.

Median nerve neuropathy can result from injury or a failed injection into a vein in the elbow.

Symptoms primarily concern the ability to move the hand: it does not rotate, does not bend, and it is difficult for the patient to move his fingers. As the disease progresses, the symptoms worsen, the muscles become increasingly weaker, and the patient cannot clench his hand into a fist.

Ulnar nerve neuropathy can be occupational and occurs more often in those whose work involves relying on the elbows. With serious lesions, the patient loses sensitivity in the area of the little finger and ring finger.

Diagnostics and drug therapy

Diagnosing the disease is often difficult because the symptoms can be vague and similar to those of other diseases. First, the neuropathologist collects an anamnesis, but it is impossible to make a diagnosis based on the anamnesis, so further examination is prescribed. The doctor will check reflexes, prescribe a blood test, as well as electroneuromyography, which is fundamental in the diagnosis of polyneuropathies.

The essence of the method is to assess the electrical activity of muscles and nerve fibers. The procedure does not require special preparation. It is enough to come to the office on an empty stomach and not take medications on the day of the examination. During the procedure, electrodes are attached to the body (namely the injured limb). Electrical impulses cause contractions of a particular muscle. The doctor may ask you to tense your arm or move it several times. The procedure is quite quick and non-invasive. The result is obtained in the form of a graph, as with .

If the patient has been diagnosed with polyneuropathy of the upper extremities, it is necessary to begin treatment as early as possible. Drug therapy includes:

Painkillers. Polyneuropathy can be accompanied by severe pain. But since this pain is neurological in nature, it is very rarely possible to completely relieve it. Painkillers and anticonvulsants are recommended, such as Gabapentin, Neurontin. Conventional painkillers such as Analgin will not give any effect.
Vitamins. Multivitamin complexes or injections with B vitamins are prescribed to strengthen nerve fibers and improve their conductivity. There are special complex preparations that contain vitamins and lidocaine. When injected they relieve pain. A course of vitamin therapy lasts about a month.
Metabolic agents. As a rule, these are complex drugs that improve metabolism, normalize blood flow and conduction of nerve impulses. Such drugs include Actovegin, Instenon, Cytochrome C. However, not all of them are effective in treating certain types of polyneuropathies.

Drugs are prescribed depending on the underlying causes of the disease. First of all, it is necessary to eliminate these causes and cure the disease that led to polyneuropathy.

Surgical and alternative treatment

Surgery for polyneuropathy is not always effective. If damage to peripheral nerves is caused by infection, diabetes mellitus or another disease, conservative treatment, physiotherapy, massage, etc. are prescribed.

Surgery is recommended if polyneuropathy is caused by a pinched nerve and the symptoms become more severe. For example, surgery is prescribed for tunnel neuropathy. The muscles compressing the nerve are cut, and the ligaments are cut to stop pinching the nerve. In most cases, surgery eliminates all unpleasant symptoms. However, the effectiveness of surgery largely depends on proper rehabilitation.

As a rule, polyneuropathy is not treated exclusively with traditional methods, but they often complement drug therapy and allow you to quickly cope with the disease.

The most common folk methods of treating polyneuropathy are:

Clay. Natural clay has many healing properties. It is used topically. Blue or green clay powder is diluted with water to a thick paste. This paste should be applied in a thick layer to the injured hand and wait until it dries. You can also make warm compresses with clay.
Massage. The correct massage technique will help not only relieve pain, but also improve blood circulation. Warming ointments or castor oil are used for massage. Rub your hand with gentle movements until the skin appears red. Then you can rub in vodka, wrap your hand in a warm cloth and leave it overnight.
Phytotherapy. For polyneuropathy, herbal decoctions are recommended to be taken orally. To restore the functioning of the nervous system, you can take decoctions and infusions of burdock, dill, rosemary, and cloves. Burdock root can be chewed raw. It is believed that this way it is more effective.
Kefir. Fresh kefir must be mixed with parsley and sunflower seeds. The result is a medicine that will not only strengthen the nervous system, but also remove toxins from the body.

Traditional methods of treating polyneuropathy have their contraindications. They may cause an allergic reaction. Before using the product, you should consult a neurologist.

Prognosis and possible complications

With timely treatment of acute polyneuropathy, the prognosis is favorable. However, treatment for the chronic form of the disease lasts a lifetime. Full recovery does not occur, but the patient’s quality of life can be improved.

If treatment does not have an effect, the person becomes disabled. Polyneuropathy can lead to various unpleasant consequences. Constant pain and muscle weakness lead to the fact that a person cannot work fully. The rapidly progressing disease can be fatal.

Severe complications of polyneuropathy of the upper extremities include:

Sudden cardiac arrest. Disruption of the peripheral nervous system is often accompanied by serious cardiac problems, etc. A severe attack of arrhythmia can lead to sudden cardiac death.
Respiratory disorders. The nervous system performs many functions, one of which is sending impulses to the muscles. If the connection with the respiratory muscles is disrupted, shortness of breath, asthma and other respiratory problems develop, which can also be fatal.
Irreversible movement disorders. Serious damage to the peripheral nerves leads to the inability to move the arm normally, even to the point of paralysis. These effects may be reversible or irreversible in the chronic, progressive form of the disease.

More information about polyneuropathy can be found in the video:

To avoid complications, you must consult a doctor in time and follow his recommendations. Moderate physical activity and proper nutrition are recommended as preventive measures.

Polyneuropathy is often caused by infections, so it is necessary to strengthen the immune system, harden yourself, monitor your diet, and take multivitamin complexes. It is also very important to get rid of bad habits, especially drinking alcohol. There is such a thing as alcoholic polyneuropathy. Alcohol destroys the human immune system and nervous system.

Neuropathy is a disease that is accompanied by degenerative or dystrophic damage to the nerves. It is a fairly common disease of the nervous system and has many factors that can cause it.

The onset of the disease may be indicated by the appearance of pain, numbness, or a burning sensation in certain areas of the skin. Then muscle paresis develops with loss of reflexes.

With peripheral neuropathy, symptoms depend on which nerve is affected. When motor nerves are damaged, the functioning of muscle fibers is disrupted. Muscle weakness followed by muscle atrophy is observed. Changes in sensory fibers lead to numbness of the limbs, paresthesia, and pain. If the nerve of the autonomic nervous system is affected, patients complain of dry skin, frequent development of inflammatory processes, hair loss, and changes in skin color.

Causes of neuropathy

There are many causes of the disease, the most common include:

Intoxication – poisoning of the body with salts of heavy metals, arsenic, mercury, side effects of certain medications, in chronic alcoholism.
Neuropathy in diabetes mellitus is the most common pathology with this disease. In advanced cases, diabetic foot develops.
Due to injuries, hypothermia.
Lack of minerals and vitamins, metabolic disorders.
Infectious diseases, including HIV.
Multiple sclerosis is a disease in which the nerve sheath is destroyed.

Types of neuropathies

In his medical practice, the doctor often encounters peripheral neuropathy. This type affects the nerves of the arms and legs. Usually diagnosis is not difficult. With autonomic neuropathy, internal organs are affected; its symptoms are not so specific. The patient seeks medical help from a therapist and the disease may not always be associated with nerve damage.

Post-traumatic neuropathy can also be distinguished. The main cause is injury to the nerve trunk, damage to the spinal cord. This also includes tunnel neuropathy, which occurs as a result of compression of the nerve by muscle fibers and ligaments.

Diagnosis of the disease

Diagnosis of neuropathy based on complaints, questioning and examination of the patient. The level and extent of nerve damage can be determined using electroneuromyography. This method allows you to find out the presence of an inflammatory process, the degree of disruption of the nerve impulse, what exactly is affected - a muscle or a nerve, and whether there is tunnel syndrome.

The radial and ulnar nerves are most often affected. If the radial nerve is affected, the patient complains of changes in the sensitivity of the skin and motor disturbances. Complaints and signs depend on the degree and level of damage.

If the nerve is damaged in the upper sections, the patient’s extensor muscles of the hand, phalanges of the fingers, and forearm do not work. When trying to raise the hand, the hand hangs, the sensitivity of the first, second and some of the third fingers is impaired. With neuropathy of the radial nerve in the lower parts, the ability to straighten the forearm and hand is retained, skin sensitivity is preserved on the shoulder while the above signs of neuropathy are preserved. To determine the level of damage to the radial nerve, there are special diagnostic tests; they are used by neurologists.

When visiting a patient, the doctor will pay attention to paresthesia and numbness of 4-5 fingers and along the nerve. As the disease progresses without treatment, the hand begins to resemble a “clawed paw” in appearance. Diagnosis is usually not difficult; diagnostic tests are used. Of the neuropathies of the upper extremities, these two nerve trunks are most often affected.

Symptoms of lower extremity neuropathy

Tibial nerve neuropathy has the following symptoms:

Sensitivity disorder - paresthesia and numbness of the skin on the sole, back of the leg. Intense pain may also occur.
Damage to the motor roots—paresis of the muscles that rotate the foot inward, the flexors of the fingers and foot. The Achilles reflex is lost. Subsequently, atrophy of the posterior muscles of the lower leg develops. The foot is constantly in an extended state, which makes gait difficult.

The diagnosis can be made based on simple tests:

Walking with emphasis on your toes is impossible.
The patient cannot turn the foot inward and flex the toes and foot toward the sole.

Peroneal nerve neuropathy is quite common. He is one of the branches. When it is damaged, motor and sensory disturbances are observed. But here you can notice that the opposite group of muscles suffers than when the tibial nerve is damaged.

What will a specialist see with peroneal nerve neuropathy?

There is no way to walk or stand on your heels.
The foot hangs down, slightly turned inward, toes are bent.
The characteristic gait is peroneal, cock-like, stepage - a person, in order not to touch the floor with his fingers, tries to raise his leg high. Then he places the toe on the floor, then the edge of the foot and the sole.
Atrophy of the muscles that are located on the front surface of the lower leg.
The patient cannot straighten and rotate the foot outward.
The range of motion in the ankle joint decreases.

For neuropathy of both the tibial and peroneal nerves, treatment will differ little from the generally accepted one.

The basis of therapy is the elimination of the causes that caused the disease. In addition, painkillers and agents are prescribed to restore the activity of the affected nerve fiber. In the initial stages of neuropathy, detoxification therapy, vitamins, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, vascular drugs, hormones, and antioxidants are used for treatment. If the cause is an infectious or viral disease, then antibacterial and antiviral agents are prescribed.

When acute manifestations decrease, you can add physiotherapeutic treatment, massage, physical therapy, and reflexology to the prescribed medications.

It is important to pay attention to the lower extremities, because untimely treatment will lead to complications and, possibly, disability. The same can be said about neuropathy of the upper extremities. Depending on the severity of the disease, treatment is carried out on an outpatient basis in a clinic or as an inpatient. The recovery period usually takes place in a sanatorium.