For over a week I have had pain from the base of the neck, through the left shoulder, in the elbow and while there is no pain in my hand (and I have full mobility), the index and middle finger of my left hand are numb and/or have pins and needles constantly. After hours of “research” online while trying to sidestep as much of the BS as possible, I’ve read everything from “cease all activity” to “do these stretches/isometric neck exercises” and “it should go away in a few days” to “it’ll take a year and surgery.” Bulging discs, bone spurs, etc etc…my primary question is what is the best course of action in this scenario where my MAIN concern is regaining sensation in my fingers/hand. The pain has already improved some but not the hand. I’ve adjusted sleeping position, bad posture (I have a desk job)…I was training 4x a week, but have not been able to on account of this being aggravated by virtually every lift. I know the cause of this could range from “bad posture” to more serious conditions that do indeed require surgery, but wanted to know your opinion on a conservative path forward that will get my hand back as soon as possible (and back under the bar). Should I continue to train? Are nsaids an important part of the healing process (anti-inflammatory) or merely for pain management (as I stopped taking them after a few days when I could tolerate the pain). Ice? Heat? Massage? Stretching? Any of these good, bad or ugly for such a thing? Many thanks for all you do.
Honestly, this is something that really needs a consultation. Just having the concern of “pain from the neck through the elbow with finger numbness” by itself is not enough information to provide individualized/specific recommendations via a forum like this. Sorry about that.
Would recommend seeking a consultation either with a local physician, or with a member of our rehab team.