Can you please give me your opinion? I injured my arm two months ago at a meat processing plant. Initially, my arm started tingling, initially less, for about half an hour to an hour a day, then the pain started and the tingling increased. I went to the doctor, and he told me that a nerve or tendon was inflamed.
I had an EMG done, which showed that the median nerve in my hand was moderately damaged. The doctor prescribed 12 injections: 10 injections of vitamin B12 and two injections that I received every seven days. Also, when I twist my hand, the middle finger hurts a little as if it’s not mine, and the bottom fourth finger feels a bit tingly when touched. When I make a fist and try to pull it upward, it tightens and hurts me, and it feels like something is clicking in my shoulder.
Can you give me advice on what to do and how to proceed? I also need to go abroad for work at the end of March. I need to recover by then. Can you give me advice on what to do? Thank you in advance.
From the description of the symptoms, it’s not clear whether it’s carpal tunnel syndrome or cervical brachial syndrome (pressure on the nerve as it exits the neck). Regardless, medication therapy is necessary but not sufficient. If it’s carpal tunnel syndrome, in addition to laser and ultrasound therapy, it’s advisable to undergo manual therapy focusing on mobilizing the joints of the hand and forearm, with special emphasis on mobilizing soft tissues and stretching exercises.
If cervical brachial syndrome is at play, in addition to neck and shoulder massages, traction of the neck is highly recommended, as well as mobilization techniques for the cervical and thoracic spine.
I emphasize that for complete recovery and the speed at which it will occur, the patient’s patience is crucial because nerve recovery is slow and can take months. Additionally, after completing therapy, it’s extremely important to continue exercising regularly to prevent the recurrence of symptoms.
