Question
QUESTION: I'm a 26 year old male with some serious hand numbness issues.  The numbness seems to be more noticeable in my right hand than my left, and for the most part is in my thumb, index, and middle finger.  I notice a discomfort in my right elbow and what seems to be under my right bicep, like where your thumb would be if you grabbed your upper right arm.  I have a physically strenuous occupation (electrician,) and noticed the onset of this problem came right after working long hours one weekend for a shutdown.  I've received some trigger point therapy which hasn't really helped.  This has come to the point where it's affecting my work, making it difficult to grasp things with my hand.  Any advice you have would be greatly appreciated.

ANSWER: Dear Richard,

Thank you for your question.

Unfortunately, I have been attending to a personal emergency and only received your question today at a remote location.  I should be back in my office tomorrow morning and I will be able to give it proper attention and send you a suitable response at that time.  


Sincerely,
James W. Healey, DC

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: No problem sir, actually, this gives me an opportunity to give a follow up question since I forgot to mention a few things in my original question.  I've noticed that if I'm laying on my back with my left arm above my head when I sleep, my left hand thumb, index, and middle finger go severely numb within a minute.  Also, when I'm just standing and holding a phone to my ear with my left hand, my fingers will go numb.  Also, the top of my left hand will get sore and throb a little depending on what position it's in, as well as both elbows are now experiencing a discomfort.  I hope these additional symptoms I'm having will help you to make a more informed diagnosis.  Thanks again.

Answer
Hello, again, Richard.

Thank you for the follow-up information.  Just a few minutes ago, I sent you a full response to the original question and our messages must have crossed in the e-mail.  

I encourage you to take a moment to review it.  It is not changed significantly by the information in your follow-up.  

I wish you the best.


Sincerely,
James W. Healey, DC