Does your patient suffer from chronic nerve pain? Discover if they might have Double Crush Syndrome!

Double Crush Syndrome (DCS) is a neurological condition where a peripheral nerve is compressed at two or more distinct anatomical sites along its course. This dual-site compression can amplify symptoms and complicate diagnosis and treatment. Here's a detailed explanation of this condition:

Anatomical Basis:

Peripheral nerves can be compressed or entrapped at various points as they travel from the spinal cord to their distal endpoints. In DCS, a primary site of nerve compression makes the nerve more susceptible to secondary compression at a distal site. Common nerves affected include the median, ulnar, and radial nerves.

Common Sites of Compression:

Cervical Spine: Compression of nerve roots in the cervical spine (e.g., due to a herniated disc or cervical spondylosis).

Peripheral Sites: Secondary compression sites along the same nerve, such as:

Median Nerve: At the carpal tunnel in the wrist.

Ulnar Nerve: At the elbow (cubital tunnel syndrome).

Radial Nerve: At the forearm (radial tunnel syndrome).

Pathophysiology:

The underlying pathophysiology of DCS suggests that an initial site of compression impairs axonal transport and nerve function, making the nerve more vulnerable to additional compression further along its path. This dual impairment can lead to more pronounced symptoms and greater dysfunction than a single site of compression.

Symptoms:

Pain: Localized or radiating along the nerve's path.

Numbness and Tingling: Often in the areas supplied by the affected nerve. Weakness: Muscle weakness in areas innervated by the compressed nerve.

Diagnosis:

Our ANF Therapist uses palpation techniques to help identify the location of entrapment and effectively guides where treatment is required.

Treatment:

Depending on the severity, an ANF Therapist will treat nerve entrapments using a range of ANF Devices that aim to target neurons affecting nerve compression.

To learn more about the ANF Treatment Approach, visit www.anfacademy.com