Understanding Numbness in the Hand – Receive Expert Advice in Arlington, VA

The sensory functions of the hand, which include both touch and temperature, play a crucial role in providing essential feedback to the brain for effective object recognition and protection. Numbness in the hand can disrupt this intricate system, leading to an inability to feel pain or distinguish temperature variations. It can also create altered sensations, such as pins and needles, burning, aching and shooting pains, which can reduce dexterity during fine motor activities.

The Importance of Specialized Hand Care

Hand numbness is often traced to nerve irritation or compression. To identify and address this complex issue, specialized expertise is necessary. In Arlington, Virginia, many people turn to Dr. Cassie G. Root, a distinguished hand specialist practicing at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center. Dr. Root, a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, holds a Subspecialty Certificate in Surgery of the Hand from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. Over the years, she has earned the trust and respect of many patients and peers.

The Diagnostic Process

To pinpoint the origin of numbness in the hand, Dr. Root will perform a comprehensive health history review along with a thorough physical examination. Additional steps in the diagnostic process may include lab testing to investigate possible global causes of hand numbness, such as diabetes and vitamin deficiencies. Dr. Root may also order imaging studies of the neck to check for nerve compression in the cervical spine, which is a common source of hand numbness.

Tailored Treatment Options

Treatment can vary based on the underlying cause of the numbness. Nerve compression often calls for specialized care from a hand doctor, while medical causes are best addressed by the relevant specialist. For instance, an endocrinologist can treat complications of diabetes, while a neurologist may address hand numbness related to multiple sclerosis.

Nonsurgical therapies such as rest, hand splinting, injections and anti-inflammatory medications can often help relieve numbness in the hand caused by nerve compression. For severe or persistent numbness, Dr. Root may suggest a surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the affected nerve.

Consult With Dr. Root

As a leading hand surgeon in Arlington, VA, Dr. Root has extensive experience in addressing numbness in the hand. To schedule a personal consultation, contact Nirschl Orthopaedic Center today at (703) 525-2200. Enhance your hand health with Dr. Root’s expert guidance.