Cheiralgia paresthetica

A condition involving sensory disturbance in the hand

Cheiralgia Paresthetica

Diagram of the superficial branch of the radial nerve

Cheiralgia paresthetica, also known as Wartenberg's syndrome, is a neurological condition characterized by sensory disturbances in the hand, specifically affecting the distribution of the superficial branch of the radial nerve. This condition is often caused by compression or irritation of the nerve, leading to symptoms such as pain, tingling, and numbness on the dorsal aspect of the hand.

Anatomy

The radial nerve is one of the major nerves of the upper limb, originating from the brachial plexus. It travels down the arm and divides into a deep branch, which is primarily motor, and a superficial branch, which is sensory. The superficial branch of the radial nerve provides sensation to the dorsal surface of the hand, including the thumb, index finger, and middle finger.

Causes

Cheiralgia paresthetica is typically caused by external compression of the superficial branch of the radial nerve. Common causes include:

• Wearing tight wristbands or watches
• Repetitive wrist movements
• Direct trauma to the wrist area

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of cheiralgia paresthetica include:

• Pain on the dorsal side of the hand
• Tingling or "pins and needles" sensation
• Numbness in the area supplied by the superficial branch of the radial nerve

These symptoms are usually exacerbated by wrist movements or pressure on the wrist.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cheiralgia paresthetica is primarily clinical, based on the patient's history and physical examination. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies may be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Treatment

Treatment for cheiralgia paresthetica focuses on relieving the compression of the nerve. Common approaches include:

• Avoiding activities or objects that cause compression
• Using wrist splints to immobilize the wrist
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief

In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to decompress the nerve.

Prognosis

The prognosis for cheiralgia paresthetica is generally good, especially if the condition is diagnosed early and the source of compression is removed. Most patients experience significant improvement in symptoms with conservative treatment.

Related pages

• Radial nerve
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Carpal tunnel syndrome