Electric Sensations in Fingers: Possible Causes and Treatments

Finger electrical sensation

Hello Doctor, I have recently been experiencing a slight tingling and electric sensation in my left hand fingers, specifically the middle and ring fingers.
I have undergone cervical traction therapy at a rehabilitation clinic, but the results were not significant.
Recently, I noticed that whenever I lightly tap my head (any area, including the face and chin), I feel a current-like sensation in the tip of my left middle finger, as if it’s being shocked.
Could you please advise what might be causing this? Thank you very much for your help.
Additionally, I have been dealing with migraine issues since the year before last.
Recently, my doctor prescribed some preventive medication, and I have also been taking T-One Jing'an 10mg before bed.
Could this be related to the medication? However, I have noticed an improvement in my headaches after taking the medication.

Bohe, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/07

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, your symptoms are more indicative of cervical radiculopathy, which may be caused by cervical spine degeneration or disc herniation, leading to foraminal stenosis and compression of the cervical nerve roots.
If the sixth cervical nerve root is compressed, it can result in numbness of the thumb.
Compression of the seventh cervical nerve root can cause numbness in the index, middle, and ring fingers.
Compression of the eighth cervical nerve root can lead to numbness in the little finger, and in severe cases, may result in muscle atrophy of the hand.
Sudden impacts to the head may trigger acute compression and exacerbate symptoms.
It is advisable to consult a neurologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Tao, Shen Nei, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/01/07

More Info

The sensations you're experiencing in your left hand, particularly the tingling and electric-like feelings in your middle and ring fingers, could be indicative of a few underlying issues, primarily related to nerve compression or irritation. Given your history of neck pain and the treatments you've undergone, it is plausible that these symptoms are linked to cervical spine issues, such as cervical radiculopathy. This condition occurs when nerve roots in the cervical spine become compressed or irritated, often due to herniated discs or degenerative changes in the vertebrae.

When you mentioned that tapping your head or face triggers these sensations in your fingers, it suggests a possible connection between the cervical nerves and the sensations you're feeling. The cervical nerves that correspond to the fingers are particularly sensitive to mechanical stimuli, and any sudden movement or pressure can exacerbate the symptoms. For instance, if the C7 nerve root is affected, it can lead to numbness or tingling in the middle finger and part of the ring finger, which aligns with your symptoms.

In addition to cervical radiculopathy, other potential causes for your symptoms could include peripheral neuropathy, which can result from various factors such as diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or exposure to toxins. However, given your specific symptoms and their correlation with neck issues, cervical radiculopathy seems more likely.

Regarding your migraine history and the medications you're taking, it's important to consider that certain medications can have side effects that may contribute to neurological symptoms. The medication T One (which typically contains a combination of ingredients for anxiety and sleep) could potentially influence your neurological status, especially if it affects your central nervous system. However, since you noted an improvement in your migraines with the medication, it may be beneficial to continue discussing your symptoms with your healthcare provider to ensure that any side effects are managed appropriately.

To further investigate your symptoms, I recommend consulting with a neurologist or an orthopedic specialist who can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies like an MRI of the cervical spine or nerve conduction studies. These tests can help determine if there is any structural issue contributing to your symptoms.

In the meantime, consider the following management strategies:
1. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around your neck and improve posture, potentially alleviating pressure on the nerves.

2. Ergonomic Adjustments: Ensure that your workspace is ergonomically friendly, which can help reduce strain on your neck and shoulders.

3. Heat Therapy: Applying heat to the neck area may help relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow, which can alleviate some symptoms.

4. Medication Review: Discuss with your doctor the possibility of adjusting your current medications if you suspect they may be contributing to your symptoms.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing stress can contribute positively to your overall neurological health.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be linked to cervical nerve issues, a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor to discuss your symptoms in detail and explore further diagnostic options.

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