Management of work-related upper-extremity nerve entrapments

Peripheral nerve symptoms are common in the worker. Great care must be given to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Diagnostic labels should not be used unless one is sure of the diagnosis. A detailed evaluation of the worker, job, and medical and psychosocial conditions must be performed. Nonoperative treatment is primary. Understanding at-risk patients and managing them carefully can decrease disability and improve results following treatment. The results from surgery are less successful in work-related disorders and disability is often prolonged. Surgery should only be performed for clear diagnoses and clear indications after adequate nonoperative treatment, with careful consideration of the job to which the worker will return.