New Member Intro
 

Hello Everyone, This is my first post so please be kind.

First off, any and all constructive feedback is appreciated, as I have registered in another board years ago for my hip replacement and it was VERY helpful.

Brief History: On July 2010 I fell with a glass bottle in my right hand, during the fall the bottle broke and I lacerated my palm and did nerve damage, mostly median. Surgery was done 1 week later, and went to rehab. Long story short, I do have full movement of thumb/fingers, the bottom of my index finger has always been numb after the surgery, a little tingling when I touch the palm where surgery was done, and the side of the long finger next to index is a little sensitive. The numbness never really bothered me, and there was never really any other pain/aggravation.

Now current day: Over the past 3 months, my index finger increased in tingling (all over), at times there is a burning sensation, and even some stabbing sensations. This is 24x7 and is starting to wear on me emotionally and mentally. Went to Orthopedic surgeon, and he doesn't think another surgery will help to see if anything can be corrected, being that it's been 5 1/ years. My general doctor said to try a topical supplement, so I have been using Deep Blue. It helps my tennis elbow, but so far it doesn't seem to be helping my hand/finger. I do have an appointment with a Neurologist for March 2, 20016 to have a EMG/NCV tests done to hopefully identify the root cause.

Questions: I am hoping that the tingling, burning, and stabbing doesn't get worse, I am ok with not having any feeling in the index finger, I just want to have some emotional/mental relief from feeling this 24x7. The pain is bearable, it's just all the time which is starting to effect me emotionally. My questions are,
1. has anyone tried supplements?
2. What types of medicine(s) seem to help?as NSAIDS don't appear to help
- My Neurologist just prescribed Gabapentin, starting with 300mg (1 pill) once a day for 1 week, then 2 pill (600mg total) for a week, then in the 3rd week taking 3 pills for a total of 900mg
3. Any feedback is welcomed that may provide me some insight on what the future MAY bring

I will also post this in the PN forum.

Thanks All,

Bob

Hello and Welcome Bob,

Nerve injuries are tough. I understand having had one and peripheral nerve surgery as well. I am glad you're getting in with neuro for the testing. If it comes back okay there is a chance that a Peripheral Nerve surgeon (plastics reconstruction) could check further with a Scratch Collapse Test. My own nerve conduction was a little reduced but unremarkable but my scratch collapse was positive right where my neuroma was. This can tell you if there is any entrapment not showing on EMG. In some cases entrapment or scar tethering can be treated via hydrodissection, steroid injection or even PT so it doesn't have to mean you need more surgery.

Gabapentin was helpful for me for nerve pain though ultimately I switched to nortriptyline which helped as well. There are medication options. I would also recommend paying attention to your body mechanics and how you stress your hand/elbow/shoulder and neck in case any overuse is aggravating it.

Welcome aboard. There are many friendly and helpful members here. You can use the search feature to help trawl for specific topics. Do explore, there is a lot here.

I hope you find relief and answers soon.

Nice to meet you!!
 

:Wave-Hello: Hello and welcome, happy to see you have come to be with us, it a great place to be. We have a great number and caring fellow members here, where you have find a supportive and relaxing place. Have fun looking into the different forums. Our shoulders are here for support in many ways.

Please keep us up to date on your condition. Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you. :smileypray:

Darlene :hug:

Thanks
 

Littlepaw and Darlene, you made me smile when I saw your reply. I now know I found the correct board to reach out to, do research, and learn from other peoples experience.I will continue my posting under the Peripheral Neropathy folder, and continue to welcome any other messages from others.

Again, thank you!

Bob