Peripheral Nerve Injuries & Tumors

Peripheral nerves carry signals between the brain and spinal cord and the rest of the body. A peripheral nerve injury is damage to one of these nerves, often from trauma, while a peripheral nerve tumor is an abnormal growth that develops on or around a nerve; most peripheral nerve tumors are non-cancerous.

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms can include pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the area supplied by the affected nerve, or a noticeable lump along the path of a nerve in the case of a tumor.

Causes & Risk Factors

Nerve injuries are most often caused by trauma, prolonged pressure, or a surgical complication. Nerve tumors can occur sporadically or, less commonly, as part of an inherited genetic condition.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves a neurological exam, nerve conduction studies, and imaging such as MRI to evaluate the nerve and any associated mass.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the specific injury or tumor and ranges from monitoring and physical therapy to surgical repair or removal.

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This information is for general education and isn’t a diagnosis or medical advice. To find out what’s right for you, request an appointment or call 810-262-7030.