Mononeuropathy

Mononeuropathy is a type of peripheral neuropathy that involves the dysfunction of a single nerve. It is characterized by its localized effects on individual peripheral nerves.

While it may not be as widely recognized as some conditions, it affects individuals in different areas of the body, leading to a range of symptoms that can significantly impact one's quality of life.

Advocate Health Care’s team of expert neurologists are here for you to help you manage mononeuropathy using the latest treatments available.

How mononeuropathy affects the nervous system

Symptoms of mononeuropathy

Symptoms of mononeuropathy can vary depending on the specific nerve affected and the underlying cause of the condition.

Here are some common symptoms associated with mononeuropathy:

• Pain: Pain is a hallmark symptom of mononeuropathy. The nature and intensity of pain can vary, ranging from sharp and shooting to a persistent, dull ache.
• Numbness or tingling: Individuals with mononeuropathy may experience numbness or tingling in the area served by the affected nerve. This sensation can be intermittent or persistent.
• Weakness: Weakness in the muscles controlled by the damaged nerve is a common symptom. This weakness may affect the ability to perform certain movements or tasks.
• Sensitivity to touch: Some individuals may experience increased sensitivity to touch in the affected area. Light touch or pressure on the skin may cause discomfort or pain.
• Sensory changes: Depending on the nerve involved, specific sensory changes may occur. For example, carpal tunnel syndrome, a form of mononeuropathy, can lead to changes in sensation in the hand and fingers.
• Temperature sensitivity: Some individuals may experience changes in sensitivity to temperature, such as feeling excessively cold or hot in the affected area.

Symptoms of mononeuropathy can develop gradually or suddenly. They may progress over time if the underlying cause is not addressed.

Common causes of mononeuropathy

Mononeuropathy can be caused by various factors. The underlying cause often determines the specific symptoms and course of the condition.

Some common causes of mononeuropathy include:

• Trauma or injury: Physical trauma, such as a direct blow, compression or stretching of a nerve, can lead to mononeuropathy.
• Compression: Prolonged pressure on a nerve can cause compression, leading to mononeuropathy. For example, the median nerve in the wrist is compressed in those with carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Diabetes: Diabetic neuropathy is a common cause of mononeuropathy. Elevated blood sugar levels over time can damage nerves, particularly those in the fingers and toes.
• Tumors: Benign or malignant tumors can exert pressure on nerves, causing mononeuropathy. Tumors may originate in or near nerves, leading to compression or direct damage.
• Vitamin deficiencies: Inadequate levels of certain vitamins, particularly B vitamins like B12, can contribute to nerve damage and mononeuropathy.

In some cases, the exact cause of mononeuropathy may not be identified.

Diagnosis of mononeuropathy

Your doctor will ask about your mononeuropathy symptoms and anything that triggers or relieves them. They may also ask you about any alcohol or tobacco use, history of infections, diabetes and family history of neurological diseases.

Blood tests may be ordered to detect diabetes; vitamin deficiencies; dysfunction of the liver, thyroid or kidney; infections or signs of abnormal immune system activity.

Your provider may also recommend nerve function and imaging tests to identify any nerve damage. Imaging tests include a CT scan or MRI.

Nerve function tests are also a valuable tool in diagnosing mononeuropathy. These tests include:

• Electromyography (EMG) test: For this test, tiny needles connected to electrodes are inserted into specific muscles to record their electrical activity at rest and during contraction. Test results show any abnormal muscular electrical and can help differentiate between muscle and nerve disorders.
• Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test: This test measures signal strength and speed along specific large motor and sensory nerves and reveals the location of nerve damage.

Mononeuropathy treatment options

Mononeuropathy is a treatable condition and easily managed through therapy and medication. However, there is no way to repair the nerves.

Common treatments for mononeuropathy include:

• Acupuncture, massage and cognitive behavioral therapy to help with neuropathic pain management.
• Hand or foot braces to stabilize the muscles and nerves.
• Antidepressant medications to help relieve chronic neuropathic pain.
• Orthopedic shoes to improve walking difficulties and help prevent foot injuries.
• Physical therapy to learn muscle stretching and strengthening techniques that can help with pain relief.
• Regular exercise to deliver more blood, oxygen and nutrients to nerve endings, improve muscle strength and limit muscle atrophy.

Living with mononeuropathy

Living with mononeuropathy involves adapting to the challenges posed by nerve damage to maintain a good quality of life. The specific approach may vary depending on the affected nerve and the underlying cause of mononeuropathy.

Talk with your Advocate provider to receive a comprehensive treatment plan. Regular check-ups and open communication with your care team are essential to improving your quality of life.