Why Head Injuries Can Cause Hand Numbness: What to Watch For

Head trauma resulting in numbness and tingling in both hands?

Hello Doctor, the iron rolling door in my home’s motorcycle driveway malfunctioned, and I hit my head against the door as it was coming down.
I was wearing a helmet at the time, so I have no external injuries, but I immediately felt numbness in the webbing between my thumbs and index fingers.
A few minutes later, the numbness increased, accompanied by a tingling sensation.
When I touch or press on that area of my skin, I feel the same sensation.
It has been six hours since the incident, and my condition has not improved, but it has not worsened either.
I am fully conscious and do not have symptoms of vomiting or dizziness.
Why am I experiencing hand numbness after a head impact? What should I monitor in my condition to determine if I need further medical attention or an emergency visit? Are there any activities I should avoid, such as exercise?

Zhang Dawei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/29

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, it is important to consider the possibility of nerve root compression in the neck due to the impact.
When the intervertebral disc compresses the nerves between the fourth and fifth cervical vertebrae, it can lead to shoulder and neck pain.
Compression between the fifth and sixth cervical vertebrae may result in symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and weakness in the fingertips.
If symptoms persist or if there is weakness and difficulty with bladder emptying, it may indicate spinal cord injury.
I recommend consulting with a rehabilitation specialist or a neurosurgeon for evaluation and treatment.
However, due to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, it is advisable to wait until the situation stabilizes before going to the hospital for examination.
Additionally, please ensure to practice self-protection and hygiene measures before and after seeking medical care.
Wishing you good health and safety.
Dr.
Jiang from Taoyuan Medical Center cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/02/29

More Info

Head injuries can lead to a variety of symptoms, including numbness or tingling in the hands, which may seem surprising at first. The phenomenon you’re experiencing, where you feel numbness in your hands after a head injury, can be attributed to several factors related to the nervous system and the body's response to trauma.

Mechanisms Behind Hand Numbness After a Head Injury
1. Nerve Pathway Involvement: The brain and spinal cord are part of the central nervous system, which controls all bodily functions, including sensation. A head injury can potentially affect the pathways that transmit sensory information from the body to the brain. If there is any swelling or trauma to the cervical spine (the neck region), it can lead to nerve compression, resulting in numbness or tingling in the hands.

2. Cervical Spine Injury: Even if the impact was primarily to the head, the force of the collision can cause whiplash or other injuries to the cervical spine. This can lead to nerve root irritation or compression, which may manifest as numbness or tingling in the arms and hands.

3. Reflexive Response: The body has reflexive mechanisms that can cause sensations in different areas due to injury in another. The brain may misinterpret signals due to the trauma, leading to sensations in the hands.

4. Circulatory Changes: Trauma can also affect blood flow. If there is any swelling or inflammation, it could potentially compress blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow to the arms and hands, causing numbness.

What to Watch For
Given your situation, it is crucial to monitor for specific symptoms that may indicate a more serious condition:
- Worsening Symptoms: If the numbness or tingling worsens or spreads, this could indicate a more severe injury.

- Loss of Strength: If you experience weakness in your hands or difficulty gripping objects, this may require immediate medical attention.

- Changes in Consciousness: Any signs of confusion, disorientation, or loss of consciousness should prompt urgent medical evaluation.

- Headache or Dizziness: While you mentioned no dizziness or vomiting, if these symptoms develop, it could indicate a concussion or other serious injury.

- Neck Pain: If you experience neck pain, it could suggest a cervical spine injury.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Given that you have experienced persistent numbness for over six hours without improvement, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to assess for any potential injuries to the brain or cervical spine.

Activities to Avoid
Until you have been evaluated by a healthcare professional, it is wise to avoid:
- Strenuous Activities: Avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, or any activity that could exacerbate your symptoms.

- Driving: If you are experiencing any neurological symptoms, it is best not to drive until cleared by a doctor.

- Screen Time: Limit time spent on screens, as this can lead to eye strain and exacerbate headaches or dizziness.

Conclusion
In summary, while it may seem unusual for a head injury to cause hand numbness, it is a potential outcome due to the interconnected nature of the nervous system. Monitoring your symptoms closely and seeking medical evaluation is essential to rule out any serious complications. Remember to prioritize rest and avoid activities that could worsen your condition until you receive a proper diagnosis.

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