Expert: R. Scott Malone L.Ac. - 8/7/2009

Question
Hi...
About a year ago I started getting numbness in my ring finger and little finger of one hand while sleeping at night.  My elbow is bent when this happens.  To make a long story short, I had proper testing, MRI of neck, spine, xrays, etc., only to be told "don't know what is wrong."  Orthopedic believes it is trapped ulnar nerve and only wants surgical approach.  Initial nerve test did not show it to be entrapped, but I think it is.  This happens almost nightly.  I notice it is worse with exercise/computer use.  Also some carpal tunnel on other hand is starting (again, only at night).  My question is, could I be a good candidate for acupuncture?  I don't want surgery if I can avoid it. Thanking you in advance.

Answer
Hey Denise,

Acupuncture could be useful in this situation, but I think a good massage therapist would be as well.
Between the 2 you should be good to go.
I would have a massage therapist that does good structural work take a look at it.
Acupuncture is also very good at loosening up the muscles.
Your muscles are probably locked up in the forearm, and perhaps from the elbow to shoulder as well.
You might have an acupuncturist check to see if you are yin deficient, (internally dry), as that could be a contributing factor.

The main question is, "why?". My guess is tight, probably dry muscles.

Some needles, massage and a formula or 2 seems like a better option up front.


Scott