What Causes Pain And Numbness In The Left Arm?

Posted on Thu, 10 Aug 2017

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

Thu, 10 Aug 2017 Answered on

Thu, 7 Sep 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : Starting maybe 6 months ago I started having numbness in my left arm, starting about 4-6:00am, while sleeping. Hanging my arm over the side of the bed took care of the problem until I went back to sleep, and it would recur after some time. About a month ago we went on a trip to Europe, and I don't remember having many problems there. On returning home, the problem seems to be with my right arm now! And it isn't numbness, it's pain that started about 6:00am, but now is starting as early as 1-2:00am. Hanging my arm sometimes reduces the symptom. After getting up, it feels ok after 10-15 minutes. I've tried different pillows, changing sides of the bed, Aleve, IB, Aspirin, without much help.

Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (45 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Get examined and investigated by a neurologist

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I have gone through your question and understand your concern.
There is possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome if the involvement is mostly in hand and forearm.
Another possibility may be cervical radiculopathy.
You should get examined by a neurologist.
Nerve conduction study is also advised to diagnose the disease.
Blood investigations like thyroid profile, blood sugar should be done.
Physiotherapy can be done.
Pregabalin or gabapentin or amitriptyline can be used for symptomatic relief.
Oral or intra-articular steroids may be helpful in case of non responding carpal tunnel syndrome.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Do get back to me for further information.
Regards
Dr N Kumar
Neurologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad