Electromyography (EMG). In an EMG, a thin-needle electrode inserted into the muscle records the muscle’s electrical activity at rest and in motion. Reduced muscle activity can indicate nerve injury.
Nerve conduction study. Electrodes placed at two different points in the body measure how well electrical signals pass through the nerves.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of areas affected by nerve damage.
Ultrasound. Like MRI, these high-frequency sound waves produce detailed images of the area affected by nerve damage.
If your nerve is healing properly, you may not need surgery. You may need to rest the affected area until it’s healed. Nerves recover slowly, and maximal recovery may take many months or several years.
You’ll need regular checkups to make sure your recovery stays on track.
If your injury is caused by a medical condition, your doctor will treat the underlying condition.
Depending on the type and severity of your nerve injury, you may need medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) to relieve your pain. Medications used to treat depression, seizures or insomnia may be used to relieve nerve pain. In some cases, you may need corticosteroid injections for pain relief.
Your doctor may recommend physical therapy to prevent stiffness and restore function.
A number of treatments can help restore function to the affected muscles.
Braces or splints. These devices keep the affected limb, fingers, hand or foot in the proper position to improve muscle function.
Electrical stimulator. Stimulators can activate muscle served by an injured nerve while the nerve regrows. However, this treatment may not be effective for everyone. Your doctor will discuss electrical stimulation with you if it’s an option.
Physical therapy. Therapy involves specific movements or exercises to keep affected muscles and joints active. Physical therapy can prevent stiffness and help restore function and feeling.
Exercise. Exercise can help improve your muscle strength, maintain range of motion and reduce muscle cramps.
Other suggestions for getting the most from your appointment include:
Write down all your symptoms, including how you were injured, how long you’ve had your symptoms and whether they’ve gotten worse over time.
Make a list of all medications, vitamins and supplements that you’re taking.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Children and adults with peripheral nerve injuries have several options for restoring lost function. Be sure to ask your doctor about all the possibilities available to you or your child. If you run out of time, ask to speak with a nurse or have your doctor call you later.
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