Nerves May Heal on Their Own
Nerves have natural self-repair capabilities. Following an injury, axons “take a break” before beginning regrowth at approximately 1mm daily after about one month. However, surgical repair can shorten recovery time.
Without surgical intervention, nerve fibers may still reconnect, but this natural healing process often produces a neuroma, a cluster of nerve endings that causes tenderness and constant discomfort when touched or pressured.
See a Hand Surgeon
Hand surgeons begin with a comprehensive examination and medical history review, inquiring about accidents, surgeries, and symptoms. A neurological exam confirms nerve damage, followed by diagnostic testing.
Common diagnostic tests include:
- Nerve conduction study: Electrodes measure how effectively nerves transmit electrical signals
- Electromyography (EMG): A needle electrode records muscle electrical activity at rest and during movement; reduced activity indicates nerve injury
Based on test results, the surgeon determines injury extent and healing progression. If nerves heal well independently, rest and regular monitoring may suffice. For nerve damage from underlying conditions, treating the primary condition prevents recurrence. Pain management options include ibuprofen, aspirin, corticosteroid injections, and medications for seizures, depression, or insomnia. Physical therapy helps restore function and reduce stiffness.
Surgical Intervention
When healing isn’t progressing properly, often due to nerve compression or scarring, surgery may be recommended. The surgeon removes damaged sections and reconnects healthy nerve ends, or performs nerve grafting using tissue from elsewhere in the body to facilitate regrowth.
Surgery also restores function in critical muscles through tendon transfers and therapeutic treatments including electrical stimulation, physical therapy, splints, braces, and targeted exercise.
