Hand Numbness: Causes and When to Seek Further Evaluation - Neurology

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Numbness in the hands?


My mother is 55 years old and often experiences numbness in her hands, making it difficult for her to exert force while riding a motorcycle.
She visited a nearby neurologist who diagnosed her with nerve compression.
After receiving an injection, she had a brief recovery, but the numbness returned shortly after, and recently both hands have exhibited these symptoms.
What could be the cause? Should she go to a larger hospital for a detailed examination? Should she also see a neurologist? Thank you!

Yu Hui, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/08/01

Dr. Huang Yingzhe reply Neurology


Hello, the symptoms you described sound like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
I recommend visiting a neurologist for nerve conduction studies and electromyography.
Wishing you good health from Tainan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2002/08/01

More Info


Hand numbness can be a concerning symptom, especially when it affects daily activities such as riding a motorcycle or performing simple tasks. In your mother's case, the recurrent numbness in her hands, particularly after receiving an injection that provided only temporary relief, suggests that there may be an underlying issue that requires further investigation.

The symptoms your mother is experiencing could be indicative of several conditions, with the most common being carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, or cervical radiculopathy. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, becomes compressed, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand. This condition is often exacerbated by repetitive wrist movements or prolonged pressure on the wrist, which can occur during activities like typing or riding a motorcycle.

Peripheral neuropathy, on the other hand, refers to damage to the peripheral nerves and can result from various causes, including diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or exposure to toxins. Symptoms can include numbness, tingling, and weakness, often starting in the feet and hands. Given that your mother is experiencing symptoms in both hands, it is essential to consider this possibility.

Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated, often due to a herniated disc or degenerative changes in the spine. This condition can cause pain, numbness, and weakness that radiates down the arm into the hand. If your mother has any neck pain or discomfort, this could be a contributing factor to her symptoms.

Given the persistence and progression of her symptoms, it is advisable for your mother to seek further evaluation at a larger medical facility. A comprehensive assessment by a neurologist or an orthopedic specialist can provide a more accurate diagnosis. Diagnostic tests such as nerve conduction studies, electromyography (EMG), or imaging studies like MRI can help identify the specific cause of her symptoms.

When visiting a larger hospital, it would be appropriate to schedule an appointment with a neurologist, as they specialize in conditions affecting the nervous system. They can conduct a thorough examination, review her medical history, and recommend the necessary tests to determine the underlying cause of her hand numbness.

In the meantime, it may be beneficial for your mother to avoid activities that exacerbate her symptoms, such as prolonged gripping or repetitive wrist movements. Additionally, ergonomic adjustments to her workspace or activities may help alleviate some of the pressure on her nerves.

In summary, while the initial treatment provided some relief, the recurrence of symptoms suggests that a more thorough evaluation is necessary. Seeking care from a neurologist at a larger medical facility will help ensure that your mother receives an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to her specific condition.

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