Palsy Symptoms: Insights on Nerve Compression Issues - Neurology

Share to:

Pangshan syndrome


Hello, I often feel weakness in my hands when lifting heavy objects or gripping things, and sometimes my fingers tremble involuntarily.
I previously underwent MRI and nerve tests at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital.
The doctor mentioned that I have a condition similar to Chiari malformation, stating that my spine is causing long-term nerve compression.
He said I have a congenital spinal issue, which makes surgical treatment impossible and that I cannot fully recover.
I would like to ask if this condition is truly incurable? The doctor also mentioned that I have atrophy in my palms.

Mr. Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/07

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology


Hello: Based on your description, if a diagnosis of Friedreich's ataxia is to be considered, long-term follow-up treatment may be necessary.
Some motor neuron diseases may initially be diagnosed as this type of condition.
If it is Friedreich's ataxia, prolonged improper neck positioning could accelerate disease progression.
It is advisable to avoid neck bending and to use a cervical collar for 3-4 years for stabilization while waiting for the condition to stabilize.
If the disease progresses too rapidly, surgical options such as cervical decompression or dural repair may be considered.
I recommend discussing and seeking treatment from a neurologist and a rehabilitation specialist.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang from Taoyuan Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2018/09/07

More Info


It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort and challenges due to nerve compression issues, particularly in your hands. Based on your description, it seems that you have been diagnosed with a condition similar to "Palsy," which can often be associated with nerve compression syndromes, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or cervical radiculopathy. The symptoms you describe—weakness in your hands, involuntary shaking of your fingers, and muscle atrophy—are indeed concerning and suggest that the nerve compression is affecting your motor function.

Nerve compression can occur for various reasons, including anatomical abnormalities, repetitive strain injuries, or degenerative changes in the spine. In your case, it appears that the doctor has indicated a congenital spinal condition that is causing chronic nerve compression. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including weakness, numbness, tingling, and muscle atrophy, particularly in the hands and fingers.

While it is unfortunate that your condition may not be amenable to surgical intervention, there are still several management strategies that can help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Here are some recommendations based on current medical practices:
1. Physical Therapy: Engaging in a structured physical therapy program can help strengthen the muscles in your hands and forearms, improve flexibility, and reduce discomfort. A physical therapist can provide you with specific exercises tailored to your condition.

2. Occupational Therapy: An occupational therapist can assist you in adapting your daily activities to minimize strain on your hands and wrists. They can also recommend ergonomic tools and techniques to help you perform tasks more comfortably.

3. Pain Management: Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend pain management strategies, which could include medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or other pain relief modalities.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: It may be beneficial to modify your activities to avoid heavy lifting or repetitive motions that exacerbate your symptoms. Incorporating regular breaks during tasks that require hand use can also help reduce strain.

5. Assistive Devices: Depending on your level of function, using assistive devices or splints may help support your hands and reduce discomfort during activities.

6. Regular Monitoring: Since your condition is chronic, regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor any changes in your symptoms and adjust your management plan accordingly.

7. Alternative Therapies: Some patients find relief through alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, or massage therapy. While the evidence for these treatments can vary, they may provide additional relief for some individuals.

It is important to maintain open communication with your healthcare team about your symptoms and any changes you experience. While your condition may not be curable, many individuals with similar issues can lead fulfilling lives with appropriate management strategies. If you have concerns about your diagnosis or treatment options, seeking a second opinion from another specialist, such as a neurologist or orthopedic surgeon, may provide you with additional insights and options.

In conclusion, while the diagnosis of a congenital spinal condition leading to nerve compression may seem daunting, there are various management strategies available to help you cope with your symptoms and improve your function. Engaging with healthcare professionals who specialize in nerve-related conditions can provide you with the support and resources you need to navigate this challenging situation.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Abnormal Skin Sensation: Causes and Recovery

Hello, doctor. About a month ago, I suddenly experienced numbness and pain in my right knee. The numbness and pain have since subsided, but the skin in that area now feels less sensitive. After a neurological examination, the doctor concluded that there are no issues with the ner...


Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Dear Ms. Li, Your symptoms may suggest peripheral nerve injury. This is typically due to acute direct trauma such as nerve traction, tearing, or direct compression, and can also include chronic overuse, which may result from sustained muscle contractions, hypertrophy, or edema c...

[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Skin Sensation: Causes and Recovery


Understanding Body Tingling: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing tinnitus, general weakness, and tightness along my neck, shoulders, and legs, along with numbness and pain. I consulted a neurosurgeon and had a cervical MRI, which showed degeneration and bone spurs, but there was no nerve compression. I w...


Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Dear Mr. Ahao, You mentioned symptoms such as "tinnitus, generalized weakness, tightness and numbness in the neck, shoulders, and legs... pain in one elbow, swelling and tingling after prolonged bending." Your symptoms are more indicative of peripheral nerve injury. Th...

[Read More] Understanding Body Tingling: Causes and When to Seek Help


Understanding Nerve Compression Symptoms After Illness: A Guide

Recent situation: On October 28th, I had a severe cold with symptoms of fever, sore throat, and phlegm. After receiving an injection and resting, I currently only have a lingering cough (no muscle soreness symptoms). On November 2nd, I noticed numbness extending from my left shou...


Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
The condition is complex; it is recommended to visit an outpatient clinic for neurological examination and consultation for treatment.

[Read More] Understanding Nerve Compression Symptoms After Illness: A Guide


Understanding Nerve Compression: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hello, doctor. If the spinal nerves are injured, isn't it true that some parts of the body may experience a tingling sensation? Doctors say that this tingling feeling is caused by nerve compression. Could you please explain how to treat the tingling sensation caused by nerve...


Dr. Zhou Lizhi reply Orthopedics
Injuries to the spinal nerves require an understanding of the underlying cause, which can be categorized into two main types: traumatic and lumbar spinal stenosis. In cases of traumatic spinal fractures, urgent realignment and stabilization are necessary to prevent irreversible n...

[Read More] Understanding Nerve Compression: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options


Related FAQ

Nerve Compression

(Neurology)

Facial Nerve Palsy

(Neurology)

Foot Pain

(Neurology)

Polyneuropathy

(Neurology)

Hand Numbness

(Neurology)

Leg Weakness

(Neurology)

Muscle Pain

(Neurology)

Tendon

(Neurology)

Tingling Sensation

(Neurology)

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

(Neurology)