Have you ever had a road traffic accident or fallen on an outstretched hand? If you answer yes, you must experience numbness, tingling sensation, burning sensation, and a deep ache. These are the symptoms of peripheral nerve injury.
A sprain is the most common type of peripheral nerve injury; it occurs when the ligaments around the joint or bone become stretched or torn. Treatment for peripheral nerve injuries can be done at home, but it is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Because he got an accurate diagnosis and made a treatment plan according to his need, along with medication, physical therapy helps to cure peripheral nerve injury. Exercises with the help of tools like grip strengtheners and stress balls adults speed up recovery.
What is a Peripheral nerve injury?
Peripheral nerves are located outside the brain throughout the body. It acts as a source of communication between the brain and muscles. Any damage to these nerves results in communication disturbance, pain, numbness, and loss of sensation.
Peripheral nerve injuries are the most common, and various things can cause them, like a cut on the toe or finger, gunshot, stretching, or injection injury. Surgical procedures or surgeries can also cause peripheral nerve injuries.
The type of treatment depends on the location of the injury, but in general, your doctor will perform a series of tests to determine what type of treatment is most appropriate for you. They'll treat it with medication and surgery, depending on its location.
Sometimes they may also recommend physical therapy to help strengthen the muscles around affected nerves. Physio equipment like grip strengthening and stress ball adults helps to heal the weakened muscles.
Can peripheral nerve damage be cured?
The answer is quite complicated as some nerves can generate while some can't. However, the symptoms can be eased by medications and other techniques. But before applying any treatment, consult with your doctors first.
In a nutshell, peripheral nerve damage can be cured with a combination of physical therapy and medication. The first is to determine the extent of the damage. A doctor performs a series of tests to check reflexes, strength, and range of motion.
If there is no permanent damage, you may begin physical therapy as soon as possible. Physical therapy helps to restore the shape of your muscles. It also works through their range of motion until they can move in all directions again.
How are peripheral nerve injuries treated?
Depending upon the severity and location of the nerve damage, doctors plan different treatment protocols for treating injured nerves. In mild cases, non-surgical therapies play a significant role in easing symptoms, while surgery is the last option in severe cases.
To treat a peripheral nerve injury, first assess the damage extent and ensure there are no fractures or other injuries that need medical attention. Then apply pressure to the upper side of the damage. This helps to stop bleeding and relieve pain.
If any nerve damage is visible, use an elastic bandage to hold it together while it heals naturally. It takes at least two to four weeks to heal. During this period, you can perform the following non-surgical therapies:
Physical therapy
Exercises help to improve blood circulation in the injured area. This helps to maximise muscle recovery and strengthen the weak muscles. You can use different physiotherapy tools for this. Like
Grip strengthener
The role of a grip strengthener in peripheral nerve injury is to promote the development of connective tissue and smooth muscle. It helps to improve the patient's ability to perform daily tasks and exercise, which leads to improved muscle strength and coordination.
Stress ball Adults:
Stress balls are often used in rehabilitation programs to help patients with peripheral nerve injuries, as they have been shown to help with pain, muscle spasms, and inflammation. They also help with balance and coordination.
Massage
Massage the damaged area to speed up the healing process. It helps to release tender points and knots or break the adhesions around the injured nerve. You can use a massage ball set for such purposes.
Orthotics
Orthotics are designed to maintain the proper positioning of the joint. It also prevents the overstretching of the muscles. Orthotics help to improve the appropriate functioning of an affected part or limb.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the best non-surgical interventions for peripheral neuropathy to regenerate and preserve the damaged nerve. It also helps to ease knots and trigger points to ease the pain.
Medication
Medications are prescribed based on the severity and extent of the damage—aspirin and ibuprofen help to relieve pain. In severe pain, corticosteroid injections are used. Medication is also used for related depression and insomnia.
Surgery
In severe nerve damage, surgery is the only treatment option available. Surgeons may perform nerve grafting or nerve repair depending on the severity of the injury. This helps to regrow normally.
How long do damaged peripheral nerves take to heal?
When peripheral nerve damage occurs, it causes severe pain. With the help of medication, the pain will typically go away after a few weeks to months. However, some people may need longer than others to heal. Your doctor can help you determine how long it will take.
In cases with significant damage, nerves can take several months to heal before they can function normally again. After healing has begun, it may take up to two years for nerves to fully recover their strength.
In diabetic patients, peripheral healing nerves take time as the blood flows slowly through the body. Even in obese persons, healing takes time because being overweight makes it difficult for their bodies to heal properly when they are injured.
Final Verdict:
Peripheral nerve damage is caused by trauma to the nervous system, such as an accident or other injury. Several treatment options for peripheral nerve injury include physical therapy, medication and surgery.
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