The nervous system is an intricate network that begins in the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). From here, hundreds of nerves branch out to all parts of the body (peripheral nervous system). Together, these systems control our senses, communication, movement, involuntary activities such as breathing and heartbeat, information processing, and countless other tasks we take for granted.
Sometimes, nerves can be damaged by illness, injury, or a genetic problem. In serious cases, this can result in lasting pain and discomfort, disability, and a reduced quality of life.
Nerve conditions range from common problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome to more complex problems resulting from a traumatic injury or malignancy. Penn Nerve Center specialists have a deep understanding of the many nuances of nerve conditions and use their knowledge and experience to provide you with an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Nerve Conditions We Treat
At the Penn Nerve Center, we diagnose and treat the full range of nerve conditions, including:
- Nerve Compression/Nerve Entrapments
- Nerve Tumors
- Benign Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors
- Brachial Plexus Tumors
- Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors
- Neurofibromas (such as neurofibromatosis type 1 and type 2)
- Neurofibrosarcomas
- Peripheral Nerve Tumor
- Schwannomas
- Nerve Biopsy
- Traumatic Nerve Injury
- Brachial Plexus Injuries and Avulsion
- Nerve Lacerations
- Peroneal Nerve Injury
- Post-Operative Nerve Pain
- Traumatic Neuromas
Common Symptoms of a Nerve Condition
Symptoms of a nerve condition vary from person to person depending upon the cause. Sometimes they appear suddenly. In other cases, they come on gradually or come and go. The most common symptoms of a nerve condition include:
- A feeling of numbness, pain, tingling, or burning in your limbs or extremities
- Unexplained weakness, loss of muscle strength, or paralysis
- A headache that is persistent, comes on suddenly, or is "different"
- Problems with coordination
- Shooting pain down one leg
- Back pain that extends to the toes or other parts of the body
- Problems with vision (i.e. loss of sight or seeing double)
- Slurred speech or other new language impairments (speaking or comprehending)
- Memory loss
- Seizures, tremors, or uncontrolled twitching
- Mental impairment
When to See a Penn Nerve Center Specialist
The cause of a nerve condition is not always obvious and sometimes it can look like another illness or medical problem. That's why it's important to know the symptoms of your nerve condition and to see a healthcare professional for evaluation.
At the Penn Nerve Center, our specialists will review your medical history, assess your health, and ask you for details about your symptoms. If the cause of your symptoms isn't obvious, you may require diagnostic tests. These will help us determine the cause of your symptoms and next steps.
Sometimes, the cause of a nerve condition can be managed with medication, physical therapy and/or occupational therapy. More serious cases may require surgery. In these situations, the Penn Nerve Center's multidisciplinary team of specialists work together to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Consider scheduling an appointment with the Penn Nerve Center if you:
- Are experiencing symptoms of a nerve condition with or without a known cause
- Have suffered a traumatic injury — such as a motorcycle or automobile accident — in which the nerves or your upper or lower extremities are damaged
- Would like a second opinion for your nerve condition
- Have been treated for an injury but are still experiencing pain