Peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes of the upper limb

Peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes are a common condition in the upper limb resulting from the persistent application of pressure to a nerve. The symptoms include pain, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness and atrophy. The distribution of symptoms depends upon the nerve affected. This article discusses the aetiology, epidemiology and pathogenesis of peripheral nerve entrapment in the context of the upper limb, as well as the principles of diagnosis and management. Common examples of nerve entrapment are described in greater depth.