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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Numbness In The Fingers Post Placement Of Plate In The Shoulder?

I currently have to sleep on my back due to recently having a metal plate inserted in my right shoulder. Every night I wake up with my left hand burning hot / pins and needles and my ring and small finger totally numb on my left hand. During the day my fingers are still feeling a little numb. Can you please advise on what could be the cause.
Thu, 3 Nov 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

The symptoms are in keeping with neuropathy which is abnormal function of the nerves.

There are different possible causes such as : (1) trauma to the nerves in the area. This may be the most likely cause for you.
An x ray of the neck , shoulder and left elbow may be needed to determine if any of these areas are involved

(2)vitamin b12 and folate deficiency

(3)diabetes

(4)liver or kidney disease

(5)side effects of medication

(6)exposure to toxins

(7)infections such as shingles

(8)thyroid disease

(9)neurological conditions such as stroke, ms

In addition to the x rays , blood tests may be needed if the x rays are normal.
The blood tests are vitamin b12 and folate levels, full blood count, thyroid function tests, diabetes screening and liver function tests.

Treatment would depend on the cause found

I hope this helps
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What Causes Numbness In The Fingers Post Placement Of Plate In The Shoulder?

HI, thanks for using healthcare magic The symptoms are in keeping with neuropathy which is abnormal function of the nerves. There are different possible causes such as : (1) trauma to the nerves in the area. This may be the most likely cause for you. An x ray of the neck , shoulder and left elbow may be needed to determine if any of these areas are involved (2)vitamin b12 and folate deficiency (3)diabetes (4)liver or kidney disease (5)side effects of medication (6)exposure to toxins (7)infections such as shingles (8)thyroid disease (9)neurological conditions such as stroke, ms In addition to the x rays , blood tests may be needed if the x rays are normal. The blood tests are vitamin b12 and folate levels, full blood count, thyroid function tests, diabetes screening and liver function tests. Treatment would depend on the cause found I hope this helps