Brachial Plexopathy

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Brachial Plexopathy Treatment

Treatment is aimed at maximizing independence. The cause should be identified and treated as appropriate. In some cases, no treatment is required and recovery is spontaneous.

If there is no history of trauma to the area, conservative treatment may be tried for patients who experienced sudden onset of symptoms, minimal sensation changes, no movement difficulties, and no evidence of nerve fiber loss on NCS/EMG.

Potent anti-inflamatory drugs (called steroids) may be recommended for cases that are caused by inflammatory lesions (such as brachial amyotrophy and brachial neuritis).

Surgery may be necessary if the disorder is long lasting, symptoms worsen, difficulty with movement is profound, or if there is evidence of nerve fiber loss. Surgical "decompression" (surgical removal of lesions that press on the nerve) may help some patients.

Common painkillers, like acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen may be insufficient to control pain (neuralgia). Various other medications may be used to reduce the stabbing pains that some people experience, including antiseizure medications (such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, and gabapentin). Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline, may also provide pain relief.

Whenever possible, medication use should be avoided or minimized to reduce the risk of side effects. If pain is severe, a pain specialist should be consulted in order to make sure all options for pain treatment are considered.

Physical therapy exercises to maintain muscle strength may be appropriate for some people. Orthopedic assistance with different aids (such as braces, splints, or other appliances) may maximize the ability to use the arm.

Vocational counseling, occupational therapy, occupational changes, job retraining, or similar interventions may be recommended in some cases.