Pressure neuropathy in the hind foot of the guinea-pig

Abstract

Electrophysiological and histological studies of plantar nerves in guinea pigs indicate a pressure neuropathy produced by the wire mesh cage floors. Conduction velocity slowed in the distal parts of the motor fibers to the interosseous muscles. Segmental demyelina-tion was histologically evident and in most cases some Wallerian degeneration was also present. Patients who regularly exert pressure with the palm of the hand develop a similar lesion of the deep branch of the ulnar nerve. Weakness and atrophy usually is confined to the interosseous muscles and the adductor pollicis which may also be due to segmental demyelination.