Sports-related nerve injuries are a common occurrence in athletic activities, particularly those involving high-impact or repetitive motion. These injuries can be caused by various factors, including direct trauma, overuse, or stretching beyond the nerve’s capacity. Nerve injuries can be particularly debilitating, affecting an athlete’s ability to perform and potentially leading to chronic pain or loss of function. At The Nerve Institute, led by Dr. Mytien Goldberg, we offer state-of-the-art treatments for sports-related nerve injuries to help athletes get back to their sport as quickly and safely as possible.
Sports-Related Nerve Injury
Peripheral Nerves: Understanding the Nerve Anatomy
Peripheral nerves are a complex network of nerve fibers that extend throughout the body, connecting the brain and spinal cord to muscles, organs, and other tissues. These nerves can be classified into three main types: motor, sensory, and autonomic. Motor nerves control voluntary muscle movements, while sensory nerves transmit information from the skin, muscles, and organs to the brain. Autonomic nerves regulate involuntary processes, such as heart rate and digestion.
Each nerve comprises numerous nerve fibers, consisting of axons surrounded by myelin sheaths and connective tissue. The myelin sheaths act as insulation, allowing nerve signals to travel faster and more efficiently. If any of the components of the nervous system is damaged due to sports, you may suffer from sports-related nerve injuries, leading to pain, weakness, or loss of sensation. Understanding the anatomy of peripheral nerves is crucial in diagnosing and treating nerve injuries and disorders.
What is Sports-Related Nerve Injury?
Sports-related nerve injury refers to damage or trauma to the nerves that supply the muscles, skin, and other tissues involved in athletic activities. These nerves can be compressed, stretched, or even torn due to the physical demands of sports. The nervous system comprises a complex network of cells that transmit information to and from the brain and spinal cord. When a nerve is injured, the transmission of information can be disrupted, leading to pain, weakness, or loss of sensation.
Examples of Sports-Related Nerve Injuries
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common nerve injury that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, becomes compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Repetitive motions, such as those in tennis, golf, or baseball, can lead to inflammation and swelling of the wrist tendons. Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome may include pain, tingling, and numbness in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers.
Ulnar Nerve Entrapment
Ulnar nerve entrapment is a nerve injury that occurs when the ulnar nerve, which runs from the neck to the hand, becomes compressed or pinched. Repetitive elbow motions in sports like baseball, tennis, or golf can lead to irritation or compression of the nerve as it passes through the elbow joint or wrist. Symptoms of ulnar nerve entrapment may include numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand and fingers, particularly the ring and little fingers.
Radial Nerve Palsy
Radial nerve palsy is a nerve injury that affects the radial nerve, which runs from the upper arm to the hand. Direct trauma or pressure on the nerve, as can happen in sports like football or wrestling, can lead to nerve damage and weakness or paralysis of the wrist and fingers. Symptoms may include loss of sensation, pain, or weakness in the wrist, hand, and fingers.
Brachial Plexus Injury
The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that runs from the spine to the shoulder, arm, and hand. Brachial plexus injuries can occur due to direct trauma or stretching of the nerves, as can happen in sports like football or rugby. Symptoms of brachial plexus injury may include weakness or paralysis of the arm and hand, as well as pain and numbness.
Peroneal Nerve Entrapment
Peroneal nerve entrapment affects the peroneal nerve, which runs from the knee to the foot. Compression or stretching of the nerve, as can happen in sports like running or cycling, can lead to pain, weakness, or numbness in the foot and ankle. Symptoms may include difficulty lifting the foot or toes, foot drop, or a “pins and needles” sensation in the foot.
Symptoms of Sports-Related Nerve Injury:
- Pain ranging from mild to severe
- Tingling or pins-and-needles sensation
- Numbness or loss of sensation in the affected area
- Weakness or loss of muscle control
- Difficulty with fine motor skills, such as gripping or holding objects
- Changes in skin temperature or color in the affected area
- Swelling or inflammation
- Redness or warmth in the affected area
- Loss of range of motion or mobility
- Chronic or persistent pain or discomfort
Possible Causes of Sports-Related Nerve Injury:
- Direct trauma or impact on the affected area
- Repetitive motions or overuse of a particular joint or muscle group
- Poor technique or form in sports that require specific movements
- Prolonged pressure on a nerve due to tight or ill-fitting equipment, such as shoes or helmets
- Stretching or tearing of nerves due to sudden or forceful movements
- Inflammation or swelling of tendons or other tissues in the affected area
- Inadequate warm-up or cool-down routines leading to an increased risk of injury
- Participation in high-risk sports or activities without proper protective gear or training
Sports With a High Risk of Nerve Injury:
- Football
- Rugby
- Wrestling
- Baseball
- Tennis
- Golf
- Cycling
- Running
- Gymnastics
- Hockey
- Soccer
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Goldberg
The Nerve Institute is dedicated to providing the highest level of care for patients with peripheral nerve injuries and nerve pain. Led by Dr. Mytien Goldberg, a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in nerve reconstruction and treatment of nerve-related conditions, our team offers state-of-the-art treatments to help patients regain their mobility and quality of life. If you are experiencing symptoms of nerve injury or chronic pain, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Goldberg today.
