Peripheral Nerve Entrapments

Carpal tunnel syndrome, ulnar tunnel syndrome, meralgia paresthetica, and tarsal tunnel syndrome are common nerve entrapment conditions that produce pain, numbness, and tingling in predictable patterns — and respond well to targeted nerve blocks and interventional management.

What Are Peripheral Nerve Entrapments?

Peripheral nerve entrapments occur when a nerve is compressed, constricted, or irritated at a specific anatomical site — typically where it passes through a narrow tunnel, under a ligament, or adjacent to a bone or muscle. The resulting nerve irritation produces pain, numbness, tingling, and sometimes weakness in the area supplied by that nerve — typically following a predictable pattern that helps identify the affected nerve and the site of compression.

We evaluate and treat several common entrapment syndromes: carpal tunnel syndrome (median nerve at the wrist), ulnar tunnel syndrome (ulnar nerve at the wrist), meralgia paresthetica (lateral femoral cutaneous nerve at the hip), and tarsal tunnel syndrome (tibial nerve at the ankle). Electrodiagnostic testing (EMG/NCS) is sometimes used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the degree of nerve involvement.

How We Treat Nerve Entrapments

Treatment depends on the nerve involved, the severity and duration of symptoms, and any degree of nerve damage established on electrodiagnostic testing. Targeted nerve blocks delivered at the entrapment site can confirm the diagnosis and provide meaningful therapeutic relief — reducing inflammation around the compressed nerve and interrupting the pain cycle. Medication management may play a supportive role.

For patients with persistent symptoms or evidence of progressive nerve damage, referral to a hand or peripheral nerve surgeon for evaluation of surgical decompression is coordinated as appropriate. Our goal is to ensure every appropriate non-surgical option has been considered before recommending operative intervention. A consultation is the right starting point to determine the best path forward for your specific nerve entrapment.

Common Questions

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Our clinical team will evaluate your nerve symptoms, confirm the entrapment site, and develop an appropriate treatment plan.