What Causes Numbness And Tingling In The Elbows, Forearms And Thumb?

Posted on Sat, 17 Feb 2018

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

Sat, 17 Feb 2018 Answered on

Thu, 11 Oct 2018 Last reviewed on

Question : I am experiencing numbness and tingling below my elbow that extends to my thumb. If my elbow is bent it feels like my forearm and thumb suddenly go to sleep. What is causing this? It just started last night.

Answered by Dr. Ajay Panwar (34 minutes later)

Brief Answer:

Pinched nerve

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

The symptoms you are mentioning suggest a possible pinched nerve at the elbow.

A nerve conduction study may help establish the diagnosis. A short course of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines along with antineuralgic medicines like pregabalin-methylcobalamin will help in improving the symptoms.

In addition, an elbow brace will be of paramount importance.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

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

Follow up: Dr. Ajay Panwar (4 hours later)

What type of elbow brace is needed?

What type of elbow brace do you recommend for this?

Answered by Dr. Ajay Panwar (36 hours later)

Brief Answer:

Elbow brace compression support sleeve

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

A padded 'elbow brace compression support sleeve'- will be helpful.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Ajay Panwar, Neurologist

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