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What Causes Stiff Right Wrist And Numb Finger Tips?

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Posted on Mon, 19 May 2014
Question: I am male 71 yrs old. Reasonably good health. Have undergone 'physical' surgery namely a laminectomy,
cerviacle disectomy and fusion, 2 total knee replacements over the past 3 years. All surgery went well with good results. Have developed a stiff right wrist and numb finger tips in my right hand (all fingers) and a few months ago underwent carpal tunnel surgery. Fingers still numb and wrist still stiff. My nuero surgeon at the time of my disectomy advised that C5/6 wasn't too flash but not bad enough to consider surgery. I also feel that I have something not right in my right elbow and reckon that I have a nerve pinching there. I suspect that I should re-consult my neuro surgeon and have him order an MRI of my neck to see what's going on. Although I am not a medical practitioner, I feel my complaint may be
neck and/or elbow related. I am an architect,still practicing and use a computer and mouse for long hours - RSI? Any immediate thoughts?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar (4 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Agree with your idea

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

A sufferer may sometimes is in a better position to aim the bull's eye. I agree with your view. You need an MRI of the neck to see what is happening at the cervical level.

I also prefer to check the NCV (Nerve conduction test) from the elbow level in case the MRI does not prove the symptoms that you suffer from. Some a very good physical exams with a Neurologist/Orthopedic surgeon could pin point the location of damage even before the MRI or NCV.

Since there is a chance of occupation related stuff it is worth seeking Occupational therapist opinion as well.

Hope this works for you.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Aparna Kohli
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 2086 Questions

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What Causes Stiff Right Wrist And Numb Finger Tips?

Brief Answer: Agree with your idea Detailed Answer: Hi, A sufferer may sometimes is in a better position to aim the bull's eye. I agree with your view. You need an MRI of the neck to see what is happening at the cervical level. I also prefer to check the NCV (Nerve conduction test) from the elbow level in case the MRI does not prove the symptoms that you suffer from. Some a very good physical exams with a Neurologist/Orthopedic surgeon could pin point the location of damage even before the MRI or NCV. Since there is a chance of occupation related stuff it is worth seeking Occupational therapist opinion as well. Hope this works for you.