HW Neurological Institute

Fascinating Facts About the Human Brain [INFOGRAPHIC]

How well do you know your brain? This most amazing organ is responsible for everything from your digestion to your dreams. A neurosurgeon in Nashville put together this infographic chock-full of surprising statistics and fascinating factoids about the brain. Find out how much your brain weighs, why your brain isn’t in pain when you have a headache, and why you can’t tickle yourself. Please share this brainy trivia with everyone on your list.

What Your Neurologist Can Do for Ulnar Neuropathy, Strokes, and Trigeminal Neuralgia

If you are in need of neurological care in the Nashville area, you can trust Dr. Mericle and Dr. Ulm at HW Neurological Institute for treatment of conditions including trigeminal neuralgia,Ulnar Neuropathy , and strokes.

• Learn the basics about trigeminal neuralgia in this article from the TNA The Facial Pain Association.
• This information from the National Stroke Association provides some advice for patients and their loved ones about coping with the consequences of strokes.
• Everyday Health details the warning signs of a stroke in this useful article.
• Find out about the symptoms and causes of ulnar neuropathy in this article from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

For more information, please visit our website or call us at (615) 823-4915.

Brain, Spine Health, and Neurologists

At HW Neurological Institute, we’re committed to high-quality, patient-driven care for a wide range of brain and spine issues. The information in these links offers insight into some of the conditions we treat.

• The Mayo Clinic discusses the warning signs of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm in this article.
• In this article from the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, learn the treatment options for cerebral aneurysms.
• Could you be at risk for an cerebral aneurysm? Find out about cerebral aneurysm risk factors in this fact sheet from the Brain Aneurysm Foundation.
• Get tips on avoiding strokes in this information from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

To find out how we can help you overcome everything from trigeminal neuralgia to back pain, contact our Nashville practice. You can reach our world-class neurologists at (615) 823-4915.

Lessen Your Chances of Stroke

Strokes are the fourth most common cause of death in America and one of the leading causes of disability. A stroke can happen to anyone, but they disproportionally affect the African-American community. Strokes are serious, but the good news is that you have the power to significantly reduce your risk of suffering one. Simple lifestyle changes can help you keep strokes at bay.

This video discusses ways you can cut your chances of having a stroke. Sticking to a healthy diet, being active for at least 30 minutes per day, and quitting smoking will all help control your risk of stroke. If you experience signs of a stroke, like a sudden headache, confusion, or difficulty speaking, seek medical attention immediately.

The nationally recognized neurosurgeons at HW Neurological Institute can also help you avoid strokes with treatments such as carotid stenting and brain bypass surgery. To learn more, call us today at (615) 823-4915.

Signs That You Are Suffering from Ulnar Neuropathy and Should See a Neurosurgeon

Most people have heard of carpal tunnel syndrome, but are less familiar with another, similar condition called cubital tunnel syndrome, or ulnar neuropathy. Ulnar neuropathy can cause pain and numbness and is most often triggered by repetitive or long-term flexing of the elbow. Neurosurgeons can treat this condition, often using outpatient surgery. Could ulnar neuropathy be causing your pain? Here are some signs to look out for:

Numbness and Tingling If you experience numbness and tingling in your little finger or ring finger, ulnar neuropathy could be to blame. These symptoms, like all symptoms of ulnar neuropathy, are caused by a compression of the ulnar nerve, which runs from your elbow through your hand along the side with your pinkie and into your fingers. You may notice that the numbness and tingling gets worse when you bend your elbow. Some patients even wake up at night because their fingers feel numb. These sensations tend to come and go.

Diminished Finger Coordination Many patients with ulnar neuropathy find that their finger coordination suffers. You may notice that you are making more mistakes when you type or that it is difficult to dial your cell phone. Loss of finger coordination is often accompanied by a weakened grip. These symptoms usually appear in patients with severe neuropathy and should always be reported to your doctor or neurosurgeon.

Muscle Wasting Without treatment, ulnar neuropathy can cause muscle wasting in your hand. When this happens, you may experience pain and your ring finger and pinkie may curl down in a claw-like appearance. With muscle wasting, your hand function is greatly reduced. Your hand may even get smaller in size. Muscle wasting is non-reversible, so it’s important to see a neurosurgeon when you have symptoms of ulnar neuropathy for more than six weeks. Neurosurgeons can decrease compression on the ulnar nerve using local anesthesia, and the recovery time is fast.

At HW Neurological Institute, we can resolve ulnar nerve compression using a quick, effective outpatient procedure. Don’t let this fixable problem compromise your hand function. Call our Nashville neurosurgery office at (615) 823-4915 to schedule a consultation.