Proximal Median Neuropathy, also known as pronator syndrome or anterior interosseous neuropathy, is a medical condition characterized by dysfunction or damage to the proximal segment of the median nerve. The median nerve is a major nerve in the arm that supplies sensation to the palm, thumb, index finger, middle finger, and certain muscles of the forearm.
Proximal Median Neuropathy typically occurs as a result of compression, entrapment, or injury of the median nerve near its point of origin from the brachial plexus, which is a network of nerves originating from the spine. This condition often arises due to repetitive motions, trauma, or anatomical abnormalities, such as muscular or ligamentous variations in the forearm.
Symptoms of Proximal Median Neuropathy may include pain or discomfort in the forearm, weakness in the thumb and index finger, difficulty performing fine motor tasks, and the inability to flex certain muscles, such as the flexor pollicis longus and flexor digitorum profundus muscles.
Diagnosis of Proximal Median Neuropathy typically involves a thorough medical history evaluation, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as nerve conduction studies and electromyography.
The treatment for Proximal Median Neuropathy usually involves conservative management approaches, including activity modification, physical therapy, the use of wrist splints, pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate symptoms. In severe cases or when conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention, such as decompression or nerve transfer, may be needed to relieve pressure on the median nerve and restore normal nerve function.
