Why Your Left Pinky and Ring Finger Numbness After a Minor Injury Matters

The little finger and ring finger of the left hand may experience numbness after being struck?

Hello, today while walking on the road, I was brushed by a motorcycle on the inner side of my left hand's little finger and ring finger.
At the moment, I felt significant pain, but there were no obvious external injuries or bruising, only a tingling sensation.
By the evening, the pain had subsided, but the tingling sensation has not yet disappeared.
I tried applying ice.
Will the tingling sensation go away over time, or do I need to see an orthopedic or neurology specialist for an examination? Thank you.

Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/19

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Ms.
Chen,
You mentioned, "Will the numbness in the inner side of my left pinky and ring finger disappear over time?" Your symptoms may suggest compression of the ulnar nerve on the left side.
If there is no weakness in the fingers, it indicates that primarily the sensory nerves are affected.
Typically, as the swelling in the tissues improves, the symptoms will also lessen.
The condition usually improves within two weeks.
If the symptoms persist, it is advisable to visit a neurology clinic for further evaluation of peripheral nerve issues.
Electrophysiological tests can assist in diagnosis.

Nerve conduction studies: These assess the conduction velocity and waveform of large fiber nerves.
Electromyography (EMG): This evaluates the muscle response in the area supplied by the nerve.
I recommend that you consult a neurologist, particularly one with expertise in peripheral nerves, as they have more experience with EMG testing.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Hualien Medical Center/Taoyuan Medical Center

Reply Date: 2024/07/19

More Info

Experiencing numbness in your left pinky and ring fingers after a minor injury can be concerning, and it’s essential to understand the potential implications of this symptom. Numbness, particularly in the fingers, can indicate nerve involvement, especially if it persists after the initial injury.
When you were brushed by a motorcycle, even if there was no visible external injury or bruising, the impact could have caused trauma to the nerves that innervate your fingers. The ulnar nerve, which runs along the inner side of your arm and into the hand, is responsible for sensation in the pinky and half of the ring finger. If this nerve was compressed or stretched during the incident, it could lead to the numbness you are experiencing.

The fact that the pain subsided but the numbness remains is noteworthy. In many cases, numbness following a minor injury can improve over time as the nerve heals. However, if the numbness persists for an extended period, it may indicate that the nerve has been more significantly affected.
Here are some considerations regarding your symptoms:
1. Duration of Symptoms: If the numbness does not improve within a few days, or if it worsens, it would be prudent to seek medical attention. Persistent numbness can sometimes indicate a more serious injury, such as a nerve entrapment or even a fracture that may not be immediately apparent.

2. Associated Symptoms: Pay attention to any additional symptoms that may arise, such as weakness in the fingers, difficulty gripping objects, or changes in sensation (like tingling or burning). These could provide further clues about the nature of your injury.

3. Ice and Rest: Ice can help reduce any swelling and discomfort, but it’s essential to avoid prolonged pressure on the affected area. Resting the hand and avoiding activities that exacerbate the numbness is advisable.

4. Medical Evaluation: If numbness persists beyond a few days, or if you experience any worsening symptoms, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. A visit to either an orthopedic specialist or a neurologist may be necessary. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an X-ray or MRI, to rule out any structural injuries. Additionally, nerve conduction studies can help assess the function of the nerves in your arm and hand.

5. Recovery Outlook: Many minor nerve injuries can heal with time and conservative management. However, the recovery time can vary based on the severity of the injury. If there is nerve damage, it may take weeks to months for full sensation to return.

In summary, while it’s possible that the numbness in your fingers will resolve on its own, it’s crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If there is no improvement or if you experience additional concerning symptoms, seeking medical evaluation is the best course of action. Early intervention can help prevent potential complications and ensure a better recovery outcome.

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