Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 1/2/2007

Question
I have had hand/arm/finger numbness for over two years now.  It is driving me nuts.  It is only when I am sleeping, no matter where, when, what position.  It is the oddest feeling to wake up to.  It makes me cranky!  So annoying.  I have been to a neurologist, he gave me a nerve test, negative to carpal tunnel.  I have been to a chiropractor, no treatments helped.  I have been to my family doctor, no ideas.  Had bloodwork, EKG, xrays.  Nothing gives.  I am almost 34, female. Stress level pretty low...except when I think about this problem!  I don't know what else to do.  Do I have to deal with this the rest of my life?

Answer
Hello Nancy,

   If the numbness is unilateral, then the nerve may be impinged somewhere along the pathway from spine to the fingers.  Head position is common for impinging the brachial plexus which innervates the whole arm and hand.  Nerves can be pinched in many areas as they travel through and across muscles, joints, etc.  You may want to see a doctor of chiropractic who specializes in soft tissue/ sport injuries.  They will have more knowledge of biomechanical/muscular impingements and soft tissue therapies to help your condition.  Also a MRI of the cervical spine shows the soft tissues, cartilage, and bone.  X-rays do not show cartilage or soft tisse!

Have a great New Year!
Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.