Abnormal Skin Sensation: Causes and Recovery

Abnormal skin sensations?

Hello, doctor.
About a month ago, I suddenly experienced numbness and pain in my right knee.
The numbness and pain have since subsided, but the skin in that area now feels less sensitive.
After a neurological examination, the doctor concluded that there are no issues with the nerves and advised me to monitor the situation at home.
Will the sensory issue resolve on its own? Should I visit another hospital or a different specialty for further evaluation? I am quite anxious and hope for your guidance.

Ms. Li, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/01

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Ms.
Li,
Your symptoms may suggest peripheral nerve injury.
This is typically due to acute direct trauma such as nerve traction, tearing, or direct compression, and can also include chronic overuse, which may result from sustained muscle contractions, hypertrophy, or edema causing nerve compression.
Chronic issues may arise from prolonged fixed positions, repetitive motions over time, or excessive training, which can occur from prolonged sitting, standing, or exercising, all of which may lead to peripheral nerve compression.
Additionally, scar tissue or old injuries may also be sources of nerve compression.
Common symptoms of peripheral nerve compression include pain, numbness, and weakness.
It is recommended to increase your intake of B vitamins and to remind yourself to stand up and stretch every half hour to avoid exacerbating symptoms due to nerve compression and muscle tightness.
You may also consider marking the areas where you experience decreased sensation and taking photographs.
After a week, compare the areas; if they have expanded or if symptoms have worsened, it is advisable to return to the same hospital for follow-up examinations in either the neurology or rheumatology/immunology outpatient department, though it is not necessary to see the same attending physician.
Such examinations will allow for better comparisons and more in-depth assessments.
Please ensure to practice self-protection, maintain cleanliness and disinfection, and adhere to new preventive health measures before and after your medical visits.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions!
Wishing you good health and peace,
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2021/07/01

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the abnormal skin sensation you are experiencing in your right knee. It’s understandable to feel anxious about changes in your body, especially when it comes to sensations like numbness or tingling.
From what you’ve described, it seems that you initially experienced a sharp pain followed by a loss of sensitivity in the skin over your knee. The fact that your neurologist has assessed your condition and found no issues with your nerves is a positive sign. However, it’s important to understand that changes in sensation can be multifactorial and may take time to resolve.

Possible Causes of Abnormal Sensation
1. Nerve Compression or Irritation: Sometimes, nerves can be compressed or irritated due to various reasons, such as posture, repetitive movements, or even swelling in the surrounding tissues. This can lead to temporary changes in sensation.

2. Circulatory Issues: Reduced blood flow to a specific area can also cause numbness or tingling. If you have been sitting or standing in one position for a long time, this could contribute to your symptoms.

3. Injury or Trauma: If you had any recent injuries to your knee, even minor ones, they could lead to changes in sensation as the area heals.

4. Systemic Conditions: Conditions like diabetes or vitamin deficiencies (especially B vitamins) can lead to peripheral neuropathy, which may cause abnormal sensations.

Recovery and Management
In many cases, if the underlying cause is benign and there is no significant nerve damage, sensations can gradually return to normal on their own. Here are some steps you can take to support your recovery:
1. Observation: Since your doctor has advised you to monitor the situation, keep track of any changes in sensation. Note if there are any patterns, such as worsening symptoms with certain activities or positions.

2. Physical Therapy: If you continue to experience issues, consider consulting a physical therapist. They can provide exercises to improve strength and flexibility in your knee, which may help alleviate any pressure on nerves.

3. Lifestyle Adjustments: Ensure you are maintaining good posture, especially if you sit for long periods. Regular breaks to stretch and move around can improve circulation and nerve function.

4. Diet and Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, particularly B vitamins, can support nerve health. If you suspect a deficiency, consult with a healthcare provider about supplementation.

5. Follow-Up: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion or consult a specialist, such as a rheumatologist or an orthopedic doctor, to rule out any underlying conditions.

When to Seek Immediate Help
If you experience any of the following, seek immediate medical attention:
- Sudden weakness or paralysis in the affected leg.

- Severe pain that does not improve.

- Changes in bowel or bladder control.

- Any new symptoms that arise.

In conclusion, while it’s common to feel anxious about changes in sensation, many cases resolve over time, especially when there is no underlying nerve damage. Continue to monitor your symptoms, make lifestyle adjustments, and don’t hesitate to seek further medical advice if needed. Your health and peace of mind are important, and it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Wishing you a smooth recovery!

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