Father's Problem: Fingers and Hands

[michhix]

Not sure if you can help or point me in the right direction.

My father received acupuncture in Oct - Nov 07.  After his third week of treatment, his right index finger became extremely swolen, about 2 - 3 times the size.  Painful to the tough, couldn't bend it.  He spend 5 days in the hospital, treated for gout and given antibiotics. After the antiobiotics ran out, the swelling returned, only to now move into the rest of his hand.  He experiences numbness in all fingers, (both sides), muscle weakness, can't open jars, hold utensils, etc.  Although he has had carpal tunnel surgery (both sides) over 20 years ago, he is retired and finds his symptoms getting worse at a very fast rate.  We've been to 4 doctors and still can't get a final answer.  His Rheumatoid levels were slightly elevated as well as white blood cell count, but I have a feeling it might be a nerve related disease. His feet are find, no diabetes.  Any ideas?

[michhix]

Answers as follows:

Accupuncture:  numbness in hands, carpal tunnel, alternative therapy.
Needles:  Elbow down to hand.
Current symptoms:  swelling, mostly index finger, sometimes hand
Nerve related disease?  Muscle twitching in right bicept area, he is not aware of it
Spinal issues, read via MRI's.
Occupation:  Carpenter, lots of years of swinging a hammer.
Hobbies:  used to fish, now he can't hold a pole or feel the line.
Meds:  COPD related meds and heart related meds.

We are headed to a rheumatoid arthritis specialist and neurological surgeon on the advise of the neurologist.

Thanks for your help.

[Philip D Parks, MD, MPH, MOccH, FACOEM]

Hello,

Why was your father receiving acupuncture therapy? Where were the needles being applied?

What are your father's current symptoms? Pain? Swelling? Just one finger?

Does he have a diagnosis of Gout?

What makes you think that the problem is a "nerve related disease"?

What did your father do as an occupation when he was working?  Does he have any hobbies currently?

What do the four doctors tell you or your father regarding a working diagnosis?

And, what medications are currently being used to treat your father's symptoms?

Sorry to reply with questions to your questions; however with some additional information, I will try to comment on your original questions.

~•~ Dr. Parks

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice. The information presented in this posting is for patients’ education only. As always, I encourage you to see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.