numb left pinkie

[topcat184]

I've been experiencing numbness in my left pinkie. I'm right handed, done physical labor all my life, woman 55. will see a dr. soon. read somewhere on internet this might be associated with nerves in the elbow, funny bone region. am very curious whether symptoms can be alleviated with acupuncture.

[james511]

I have had this problem for at least 4 months now, I went to the ER the first few days after i could not feel the ring finger and the pinky my plam was also dead not numb dead no feeling the two fingers curled up and is still in that position. The ER dr looked at it and checked my blood pressure listened to my lungs and heart and said that i was not gonna be around by this fall and told me to do the best i could and then sent me home thats because I have no insurance I feel fine although my fingers and 1/2 the plam of my hand is still dead with no feeling, of course it is not swelled but feels that it is 5 times the size. I have tied to get dr appointments although no-one will see me unless I have $500. up front and thats like getting up $10,000 at this time I need some help with this does anyone know anything and by the way I don't think I am gonna die very soon and the ER I went too was a county hospital it was based on the money you make I make $175. each week and had to pay $20. there just to be seen and told  nothing he could do for me.

[topcat184]

I don't think I can change the way I sleep, but notes to consider, everything you mentioned. I'm thinking it's damage from all the work I've done; but I will get the diabetic check too.  thanks!

[usarmymedic1]

you also have to think about cubital tunnel syndrome it is a nerve compression involving ulnar nerve at the elbow (funny bone) think about how you sleep do you curl your arms up under your chin lie on an arm or have your elbow bent more than 90 degrease for long periods of time resting your elbows on hard arm rest for a long time can be a factor in this syndrom this is just another oppsion to look at but also get the test done

[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hi.

Diabetes is a common cause of neuropathy, especially when the sugar levels are higher than the normal range. Diabetic neuropathy typically starts from the distal parts (toes, fingers) as small nerves are affected first.

Regards

[topcat184]

thanks for replying. I actually have my yearly exam with a new dr. in April. I can bring it up with him. I haven't had an injury. Diabetes does run in the family, as my sister and her daughter take insulin. The niece was diagnosed at age 4. Perhaps I should call and have the bloodwork done to check diabetes. Why would you think it could be that?

[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hello.

Before you think of acupuncture, you should see a neurologist and find out the cause. There could be a swelling at the elbow which presses the nerve.

Did you have an injury to the elbow or anywhere from the neck to the wrist? Have you ruled out diabetes?

Regards