Should I Consult A Neurologist Of Some Other Specialty For Numbness In A Couple Of Fingers And Shoulder Pain After A History Of Shoulder Dislocations Long Ago?

Posted on Fri, 5 Apr 2024

Question: Hi, I have a history of shoulder dislocations (maybe 12 over 10 years). My last dislocation was over 10 years ago. Starting a year ago, I have experienced numbness in the pinky and ring finger of my left hand and in the last couple of weeks it has grown in pain from the shoulder to elbow in addition to increased numbness. I had and MRI done a year ago when the symptoms first appeared and the diagnosis was compression in C6. So, my question is what is the prognosis and treatment for pinched nerves serving the left arm. Should I consult a neurologist of some other specialty? Many Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Get evaluated by a neurologist

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

I have gone through your question and understand your concern.

C6 radiculopathy can be managed with medications if the compression is mild. Neck isometric exercise should be done. And surgery may be required in non responsive cases.

Drugs like pregabalin, Gabapentin, amitriptyline or duloxetine can be used.
Prognosis depends upon amount of nerve compression.

Neurologist or neurosurgeon will be the right person to treat and manage such a condition.

Hope you found the answer helpful.
Do get back to me for further information.
Regards
Dr N Kumar

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad