A hand injury can cause extensive nerve damage, leading to long-term complications. Anisa Yalom, MD, is a fellowship-trained hand surgeon in northern San Diego, California, specializing in hand reconstructive surgery with expertise in restoring nerve function in your hand. To learn more, reach out to the office by phone or book online today.
Nerve damage in your hand is a condition that can disrupt your hand's normal sensory and motor functions. It can result from various factors, such as injuries, compression, or diseases affecting the nerves that transmit signals between your hand and the brain.
When these vital pathways are compromised, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms and challenges.
Signs of nerve damage include:
You might notice that certain areas near the injury site or along the nerve pathway feel numb or tingly. This loss of sensation can affect your ability to perceive touch, temperature, or pain accurately.
Nerve damage can lead to muscle weakness in the affected hand. You might struggle to grip objects firmly, experience difficulty holding things, or notice decreased overall hand strength.
Nerve damage can impair your hand's mobility, making it challenging to make specific movements. Simple actions like grasping, pinching, or fine motor tasks might become difficult or even impossible.
Nerve damage often accompanies sensations of pain, either at the injury site or along the affected nerve pathway. The pain can vary in intensity, from mild discomfort to sharp, shooting sensations.
If you have symptoms of nerve damage, seek medical attention from Dr. Yalom.
To diagnose nerve damage in your hand, Dr. Yalom performs a comprehensive evaluation, which includes a medical history assessment, physical examination, and advanced diagnostic tests like a nerve conduction velocity/electromyography (EMG) test. Results can show Dr. Yalom how quickly and efficiently signals travel along your nerve to your brain.
She may also recommend magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to see inside your hand.
Treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause of your condition. Dr. Yalom tailors treatment strategies to your specific needs. Mild cases may improve with conservative methods like rest, immobilization, and physical therapy.
Dr. Yalom's expertise in hand surgery allows her to explore surgical options for more severe cases, such as nerve decompression, repair, or grafting.
In some cases, she might prescribe medication like pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs to manage discomfort and inflammation.
If you suffer from nerve damage in your hand, call or book online today.