Statines en neuropathie

Ulnar neuropathy (Ollzee-neurose) is a condition characterized by the compression or damage of the ulnar nerve, which runs down the arm and into the wrist, hand, and fingers. This nerve controls the hand's muscles for grip, pinch, and hand movements and sensation in the ring finger and little finger.

Causes

Ulnar neuropathy can be caused by pressure on the nerve at various points along its route. Common causes include:

1. Lying on the elbow for extended periods: This is known as "Hypothenar hammer syndrome" and is often seen in piano players, cyclists, and others who put weight on their hands during sleep.
2. Trauma to the elbow or wrist: Fractures, dislocations, repeated forceful movement of the arm, or repetitive activities like using power tools can cause injury to the ulnar nerve.
3. Pressure on the nerves in the elbow area: This can occur due to cysts or tumors in the elbow region.
4. Arthritis: Joint inflammation can squeeze the ulnar nerve in the elbow joint.
5. Diabetes: Diabetic neuropathy is a complication of diabetes that can lead to ulnar neuropathy.
6. Alcoholism: Reversible alcoholic neuropathy can result from nutritional deficiencies and direct toxicity of alcohol.
7. Infections: Certain infections, such as inflammation of the tendon sheath surrounding the flexor tendons in the wrist, can cause pressure on the ulnar nerve.
8. Chemotherapy and other medications: Some drugs have been reported to cause peripheral neuropathy, including metformin. However, this is rare and usually reversible if medication is stopped.
9. Aging: The risk of ulnar neuropathy increases with age.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of ulnar neuropathy include:

• Weakness or clumsiness in the hand, particularly when holding onto objects or grasping them
• Difficulty moving the ring finger and little finger separately (known as a 'fromage a trois' grip)
• Tingling, numbness, or burning sensations in the fourth and fifth fingers or in the forearm when bending the elbow for prolonged periods
• Decreased sensation or loss of sensation in the ring finger and little finger
• Pain or discomfort in the elbow, especially when leaning on it or twisting it

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Diagnosis

To diagnose ulnar neuropathy, doctors perform a physical exam and may ask questions about your medical history. They will evaluate your symptoms, such as tingling, weakness, or numbness, and test your reflexes and muscle strength. Specifically, they may perform tests like:

• Elbow flexion test: Bending your elbow against resistance while keeping your arm straight reveals if there is any weakness related to ulnar nerve damage.
• Fromage a trois grip test: The ability to hold a small object between the thumb and index finger without touching any other fingers indicates proper function of the ulnar nerve. Inability to do so suggests ulnar neuropathy.
• Tinel sign and Phalen's test: Pressure applied to the affected area or bending your wrist upwards for 60 seconds can reproduce tingling sensations and help confirm a diagnosis of ulnar neuropathy. Imaging studies or nerve conduction studies may be ordered to further evaluate nerve damage.

Treatment