Faint left hand

Hi Doctor,

Today morning when I woke up around 0600, I felt I couldn't move my left hand(from elbow till limbs) it felt dead. so I used my right hand to pick my left hand up in the air tried opening and closing my limbs and after a minute or so it was alright.

Although I don't feel anything now and it is feeling perfect....but for a second I thought I was paralyzed and that was horrible.

Would you suggest me to see a doctor or practice any precautions while sleeping or it is just a normal thing?

Thanks.

[Dr Sharma]

Hi there. This could be carpal tunnel syndrome due to entrapment of median nerve. it is caused by prolonged use of computer or thumb and index finger as in improper position of arm and wrist can result in mouse elbow. Application of ice pack, anti-inflammatory drugs, wearing wrist braces, stretching and strengthening exercises when the pain subsides and modification of the way you click mouse goes a long way in avoiding further injury and treating the present symptoms. This could also be a compressive neuropathy due to compressive of cervical nerve roots by a prolapsed intervertebral disc causing the hand weakness. consult a neurologist at the earliest to help you with these. Take care.

[uxair]

Hi,

Thanks for the reply.... although I'm a software developer and sit in front of computer for at least 8 hrs a day five days a week but I uses my right hand to operate mouse.

Uzair.