What Is Brachial Plexus Neuropathy?

Brachial plexus neuropathy, also known as brachial plexopathy, is a condition that can lead to pain and other symptoms in the arm and shoulder. Symptoms are caused by a problem in the brachial plexus, a bundle of nerves.

Identification

• The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that starts at the spinal cord and controls the arm and hand, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Symptoms

• Brachial plexus neuropathy can lead to numbness of the shoulder, arm or hand; pain in the shoulder; tingling and burning sensations; weakness in the arm, hand or wrist; and problems with extending and lifting the wrist, according to Medline Plus.

Horner Syndrome

• Horner syndrome is another symptom of brachial plexus neuropathy. In Horner syndrome, according to Medline Plus, there may be decreased sweating on the face, a drooping eyelid, the eyeball may sink into the face and the pupil of the eye may appear small.

Causes

• A number of factors can lead to a defect in the brachial plexus. According to the Mayo Clinic, these include injury, problems in the immune system, inherited traits and problems in childbirth.

Treatment

• Depending on the cause of the condition, a doctor may recommend no treatment, as the condition may clear up on its own. Treatment options include bracing, splinting, physical therapy, steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, anti-seizure medications, tricyclic antidepressants and surgery to remove pressure from the nerve, according to Medline Plus.