Hand Numbness: When to See a Neurologist or Rehab Specialist - Neurology

More Info

---

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding your mother's symptoms of hand numbness, shoulder and neck pain, and her recent diagnosis of high blood pressure. These symptoms can indeed be concerning, especially given your family history of stroke.

Firstly, it's important to understand that hand numbness can arise from various causes. In your mother's case, the combination of shoulder and neck pain along with hand numbness could suggest a few potential issues. One common condition is cervical radiculopathy, where nerve roots in the neck are compressed or irritated, leading to pain and numbness that can radiate down the arm into the hand. This could be exacerbated by her high blood pressure, as hypertension can contribute to vascular changes that affect nerve health.

Another possibility is carpal tunnel syndrome, which occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the wrist. This condition is characterized by numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, particularly affecting the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. Given that your mother has a history of shoulder and neck pain, it would be prudent to consider both cervical issues and peripheral nerve entrapments.

Regarding your question about which specialist to consult, both a neurologist and a rehabilitation specialist (physiatrist) can be appropriate choices. A neurologist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the nervous system, including nerve compression syndromes and other neurological disorders. They can perform tests such as nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG) to assess the function of the nerves and muscles.

On the other hand, a rehabilitation specialist focuses on restoring function and improving quality of life through physical therapy and other rehabilitation techniques. They can help develop a treatment plan that may include exercises to strengthen the affected areas, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.

As for the distinction between neurology and brain neurology, they are generally considered the same in practice. Neurologists deal with the entire nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. If your mother is experiencing symptoms that could indicate a central nervous system issue (like a stroke), a neurologist would be the right choice.

Given your mother's family history of stroke, it is crucial to address her symptoms promptly. Stroke risk factors include high blood pressure, and it is essential to manage her hypertension effectively. Symptoms like hand numbness, especially if they are sudden or accompanied by weakness, difficulty speaking, or facial drooping, should be treated as emergencies.

In summary, I recommend that your mother see a neurologist for a thorough evaluation of her symptoms. They can help determine the underlying cause of her hand numbness and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Additionally, managing her high blood pressure is vital to reducing her overall risk of stroke and other complications. Please encourage her to seek medical attention soon, as early intervention can significantly improve outcomes. Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish your mother the best in her health journey!