How Do You Spell PLEXALGIA?

Pronunciation: [plɛksˈald͡ʒə] (IPA)

Plexalgia is a medical term used to describe pain that emanates from the nerve plexus. The word can be broken down into two parts - plexus, which is pronounced /ˈplɛksəs/ (PLEK-sus), and algia, which is pronounced /ˈældʒiə/ (AL-jee-uh). When combined, they form plexalgia, which is pronounced /plɛkˈsældʒiə/ (plek-SAL-jee-uh). The "x" is silent, and the stress is on the second syllable. This term is commonly used in medical settings to describe pain experienced by patients who have nerve damage or disorders.

PLEXALGIA Meaning and Definition

1. Plexalgia is a medical term used to describe pain or discomfort originating from the plexus, which refers to a network of intersecting nerves or vessels in the body. The pain associated with plexalgia is often localized to the area where the plexus is situated.

   The human body contains several plexuses, such as the brachial plexus in the upper limbs, the sacral plexus in the pelvic region, and the cervical plexus in the neck. Any disturbance or injury affecting these complex networks can result in the development of plexalgia.

   The exact causes of plexalgia can vary, but common factors might include nerve compression, inflammation, muscle spasms, trauma, or underlying medical conditions. Symptoms can manifest as sharp or dull pain, tingling, numbness, or a pins-and-needles sensation, depending on the affected plexus.

   Diagnosing plexalgia often involves a comprehensive medical evaluation, physical examination, and potentially additional tests like nerve conduction studies or imaging scans to identify the underlying cause. Treatment options for plexalgia generally focus on addressing the root problem, managing symptoms, and promoting pain relief. Modalities may include physical therapy, medications for pain management, nerve blocks, or in some cases, surgical interventions.

   It is important to note that plexalgia is a medical term used mainly by healthcare professionals. Patients experiencing pain or discomfort in the region of a known plexus may use this term to explain their symptoms to healthcare providers.

2. A symptom complex observed in bodies of troops after prolonged exposure to cold and wet; it is characterized by multiple pains, paresthesia, general fatigue, excitability, and insomnia.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PLEXALGIA

• plexaogia
• plealgia
• pleyalgia

Etymology of PLEXALGIA

The word "plexalgia" is derived from two roots: "plexus" and "algia".

1. "Plexus" - This term comes from Latin and means "braid" or "network". It refers to a network of nerves, blood vessels, or lymph vessels that intersect or entwine in the body. In medical terminology, plexus often refers to a major grouping of nerves that innervate a specific region.

2. "Algia" - This suffix is of Greek origin and is used to denote pain or suffering. It is derived from the Greek word "álgos" meaning "pain".

Therefore, when combined, "plex" refers to the nerve network, and "algia" refers to pain. Thus, "plexalgia" combines these roots to describe a condition characterized by pain in a specific region within the nerve network.

Plural form of PLEXALGIA is PLEXALGIAS