Chiropractors/Numbness Mystery - Any Ideas?

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Expert: - 8/9/2007


Question
You know how when you're carrying a bunch a heavy groceries, you just kinda grab them all at once and not every finger catches every bag handle and everything gets all twisted and tangled?
Well last night I was carrying 6 bags of groceries, I'd say 3-5 lbs each up 4 flights and one of the bag loops was on only one finger. It got twisted like a tourniquet and I lost feeling in the end if my right index finger... (I guess like when you twist a rubber band around your finger and it turns purple).

I assumed as soon as I put the bags down the feeling would return, but it didn't... I tried hot water for circulation and lots of massage,but I'm thinking the twisting plus the weight did something? the top third of my right index finger is completely numb... I tried the pin prick thing and nothing.....
This is creepy..... what do you think?  

Answer
Hi Amanda,

The feeling will come back, you traumatized the peripheral nerve as well as created a hypoxic situation resulting in low O2 levels. These combined can cause prolonged numbness. Let me know in 12 hours if its still numb and I will tell you what to do.

Good Luck!

Dr. Timothy Durnin
drs.chiroweb.com

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Dr. Timothy K. Durnin

Expertise

Anything Chiropractic related, Internal Medicine, Neurology, Hematology, Physical Therapy, Orthopedics Herniated or Slipped disc problems, Sciatica, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Spinal Injuries, Arthritis, Nutritional Advice, Diet and exercise, Supplement Knowledge, Orthotics, Laser Therapy, Pinched Nerves, Imaging Interpretation,(X-ray, MRI, Ultrasound, CT ect), any and all Neuromusculoskeletal Disorders. Expert Witness for 19 yrs, dealing with Medical Malpractice, Personal Injury, Workman's Compensation, Medicare and HIPPA issues. Active in clinical practice for 16+ yrs, I am a second generation Chiropractor, my father practiced for over 50 yrs in private practice and as a Diplomat in Radiology (DACBR) Currently on staff at Olympia Fields Osteopathic Hospital, active in private practice with several disciplines including Pediatrics, Orthopedic Surgery, Family Practice, IME's and Internal Medicine M.D.'s.

Experience

I own or am actively involved with 24 multidisciplinary clinics in the Chicago area employing M.D.'s, Orthopedic Surgeons, Pediatrics and Family Practice. My home practice is a continuation of my fathers which has existed for more than 55 yrs.

Organizations
AASP, ACA, ICS, AASP, AOPA, CPA, BBB, FCER, PADI

Education/Credentials
B.S./D.C. National College of Chiropractic 1991 Board Certified AMA impairment ratings. Presidential Cabinet Member NUHS. Phi Theta Kappa National honorary fraternity

Awards and Honors
Phi Theta Kappa/Who's Who in America Chiropractor of the year award 2001

Past/Present Clients
Many Chicago Bulls players

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