Anterior Interosseous Nerve Entrapement: information

The Anterior Interosseous nerve is a condition caused by the compression or irritation of the median nerve. This nerve can be entrapped at various sites along its course down the upper limb and each site is specific with regards to the clinical presentation i.e. Pronator Teres Syndrome, Anterior Interosseous nerve entrapement (also known as Kiloh-Nevin syndrome ) and Carpal Tunnel syndrome.

The most common peripheral nerve entrapement is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. In comparison to this condition, Anterior Interosseous nerve entrapement is very rare. With this condition, the median nerve can be pinched or irritated as it passes between the two heads of the Pronator teres muscle

This leads to weakness of some of the muscles which bend the thumb (Flexor Pollicis Longus),index and third fingers (Flexor Digitorum Profundus) as well as the Pronator Quadratus muscle. There may also be some aching along the front of the forearm. This condition may come on following trauma or occur as a result of repetitive activity

These clinical signs can be observed by the inability to perform the “ok” sign of tip to tip opposition of the thumb and index finger. Instead a positive pinch deformity is observed whereby a pulp to pulp rather than a tip to tip pinch is produced

Treatment options for Anterior Interosseous Nerve Entrapement.

If this condition comes on following trauma, compression to the Anterior Interosseous nerve may occur as a result of haemorrhage into the deep muscles of the forearm. If this is the case, a surgical evaluation is recommended with possible decompression.

If this condition comes on gradually, a course of conservative care is usually the first course of action. This often involves soft tissue work and myofascial release to the forearm musculature as well as rest and possible splinting.

Patients are also often advised to modifiy any activities which are contributing to this complaint such as reducing the amount of computer usage or improving the ergonomic set up to reduce the stress on the forearm musculature.

If you have any questions regarding this complaint, please do not hesitate to contact our city based clinic on enquiries@body-motion.co.uk