Suggest Treatment For Weak Fingers Due To Compression Of Cervical Nerve Root

Posted on Wed, 9 Jul 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 9 Jul 2014 Answered on

Wed, 30 Jul 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a multi level nerve compression in my neck, I'm told by MRI results. I have had this condition for many years and have managed with PT and daily exercises. I over worked my left arm doing yard work and two hours later I felt my left hand go weak. I am a musician and can't lift my fingers on my left hand past my wrist level. Orthopedic doc wants to cut me and says it might not even work. I'm am going to an Acupuncture Doc in a few days. It's been two months now. The first Orthopedic Doctor five years ago said "You don't want this surgery"!!!. I'm a good jazz player,writer, producer and am freaking out. www.willsumner.com
thanks

Answered by Dr. Vaibhav Gandhi (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
I will advise you EMG-NCV nerve conduction study.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

I have studied your case.
Due to compression of cervical nerve root there can be weakness in your fingers.
Also there can be large disc bulge which can be compressing over spinal cord.

For these symptoms analgesic and neurotropic medication like pregabalin can be started consulting your doctor.

Till time, avoid lifting weights. You can consult physiotherapist for help.
Physiotherapy like Tens and interferential therapy may give you relief for few days.

As you are a musician and you need fine functioning of your fingers, in case of nerve compression leading to finger weakness you need to decompress nerve surgically.
If nerve compression becomes symptomatically severe then surgical decompression will give permanent relief.
I will advise you new MRI cervical spine[if you have not done recently] and EMG-NCV [nerve conduction study].
Nerve recovery can be good if early decompression is done.

Hope this answers your query. If you have additional questions or follow up queries then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your queries.

Wishing you good health.

Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar