Post-Surgery Numbness in Hand: Is It Normal After Cervical Surgery?

After cervical spine surgery, experiencing numbness in the hand can be considered a normal occurrence?

Hello, my wife is 40 years old.
She recently went to the hospital due to numbness in her left arm, and an MRI revealed that she has herniated discs at the C5/C6 and C6/C7 levels compressing the nerves.
The doctor recommended surgery as soon as possible.
We had the surgery last Thursday (March 31).
The numbness in her arm disappeared on the first day after the surgery, but starting from the second day post-operation, she began to experience numbness in her left fingers, and by the fourth day, her palm also started to feel numb.
Is this a normal postoperative condition? If so, how long does it typically take to resolve? Thank you for your response!

Shijing Xiaomin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/05

Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery

Hello, it is recommended to consult your surgeon.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.
Dr.
Lai Chao-Kang, Department of Spine and Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/04/05

More Info

Post-surgery numbness in the hand, particularly after cervical spine surgery, can be a concerning symptom for many patients. In your case, your spouse underwent surgery for a herniated disc at the C5/C6 and C6/C7 levels, which was compressing the nerves. It is not uncommon for patients to experience numbness or tingling in the hands or fingers after such procedures, and there are several factors to consider regarding whether this is a normal occurrence.

Firstly, during cervical spine surgery, the surgeon may manipulate or retract nerves to access the affected area. This can lead to temporary irritation or inflammation of the nerves, which may manifest as numbness or tingling post-operatively. In many cases, this numbness is a result of the surgical procedure itself and may improve over time as the nerves heal and inflammation decreases.

In your spouse's situation, it is notable that the numbness in the arm resolved on the first day after surgery, which is a positive sign. However, the subsequent onset of numbness in the fingers and palm on the second and fourth days post-surgery raises some questions. While it can be normal for symptoms to fluctuate after surgery, persistent or worsening numbness should be monitored closely.

Typically, the timeline for recovery from nerve-related symptoms can vary significantly among individuals. Some patients may notice improvement within a few days to weeks, while others may take several months to fully recover. Factors influencing recovery include the extent of nerve compression prior to surgery, the individual’s overall health, and adherence to post-operative rehabilitation protocols.

It is essential to maintain open communication with the surgical team. If the numbness persists or worsens, or if new symptoms arise, it is crucial to contact the surgeon or healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI, to assess for any complications, such as hematoma formation or residual nerve compression.

In terms of rehabilitation, engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial. A physical therapist can provide exercises tailored to your spouse's condition, focusing on improving strength, range of motion, and nerve function. Early mobilization and gentle stretching can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing. However, it is vital to follow the surgeon's recommendations regarding when to start rehabilitation and what activities to avoid initially.

In conclusion, while post-surgery numbness can be a normal part of the recovery process after cervical spine surgery, it is essential to monitor the symptoms closely. Regular follow-ups with the healthcare provider, adherence to rehabilitation protocols, and prompt reporting of any concerning changes will help ensure the best possible recovery outcome. If the numbness does not improve or if there are any additional symptoms, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out complications.

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