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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Numbness In Fingers And Pain In Neck Post Cervical Fusion Surgery?

I had a cervical fusion C5-6 just over a year ago. I noticed I have difficulty swallowing, neck and shoulder pain that is more bothersome then prior to surgery and I have constant tingling or some type of spasms throughout my body. My doctor encouraged the surgery because of the weakness in my hand/pinky finger that he said would possibly become deformed because of the lack of muscle use. Well, I still have the numbness in the hand and I think my pinky and ring feel like they are developing arthritis.
Mon, 14 Feb 2022
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hi,

Hand numbness is usually caused by damage, irritation or compression of one of the nerves or a branch of one of the nerves in your arm and wrist. Diseases affecting the peripheral nerves, such as diabetes, also can cause numbness, although with diabetes similar symptoms usually occur first in your feet.

However, your symptoms indicate that there is compressive neuropathy which is seen in carpal canal syndrome or cubital syndrome. You need to do EMG first to confirm diagnosis and then it can be treated with local steroid shots or surgical decompression. Also, physical therapy may be beneficial.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Iven Romic Rommstein, General Surgeon
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What Causes Numbness In Fingers And Pain In Neck Post Cervical Fusion Surgery?

Hi, Hand numbness is usually caused by damage, irritation or compression of one of the nerves or a branch of one of the nerves in your arm and wrist. Diseases affecting the peripheral nerves, such as diabetes, also can cause numbness, although with diabetes similar symptoms usually occur first in your feet. However, your symptoms indicate that there is compressive neuropathy which is seen in carpal canal syndrome or cubital syndrome. You need to do EMG first to confirm diagnosis and then it can be treated with local steroid shots or surgical decompression. Also, physical therapy may be beneficial. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Iven Romic Rommstein, General Surgeon