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What Do Tingling And Numbness In Fingers After Rotator Cuff Surgery Indicate?

Posted on Mon, 1 Aug 2016

Question: Hi, I am 6 weeks post op for a rotator cuff surgery, sling is off today, my question is regarding the opposite hand were the IV was in, since the surgery my index finger and my middle finger has been tingly and numb particularly the index finger, could my arm have been in a weird position and has trapped a nerve?
It's very frustrating not being able to feel it properly.
Thanks

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (44 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Swelling causing disturbances to the nerves

Detailed Answer:
Hi there.

Thanks for the query.

Was the IV line put near the elbow or near the wrist?

Is there any redness now?

It is possible that the IV line could have caused a reaction and oedema or swelling has developed witch may be disturbing the nerves.

Keep the limb elevated. Apply ice. I would suggest trypsin, bromelain and rutoside tablet. Your local doctor will know about it.

Perform finger movement, grasping exercises.

I hope I have answered your query.

I will be available to answer your follow up queries.

Regards,

Dr. Aashish Raghu

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Aashish Raghu (1 hour later)

The IV line was nearer the wrist, there is no redness or swelling just two numb fingers, will this go away on its own eventually?

Thanks

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (1 minute later)

Brief Answer:
Watch for a week

Detailed Answer:
It is possible that the superficial Radial nerve may be affected.

Do follow the precautions I advised you for a week.

If it does not resolve by than, you can get a Nerve conduction study to find out more.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng