Numbness in the fingers: one patient's story

Gail was in a bad car accident 8 weeks ago--thank goodness she's alright.  She's almost back to normal except for the burning in her fingers on both hands and soreness in her forearms.  Fortunately, a friend told her about our office--especially how we expect results within a few visits.  I took over 40 minutes listening to her story, and it surprised me how clearly she described the moment of injury.  She said that the airbag came out so fast, it ripped her hands from the wheel before she could let go.  I pondered what I would ask my students about this case: "which muscle begins in the forearm, crosses the wrist, attaches to the fingers, and would explain burning in the fingers and pain in the forearm?"  Any guesses??  ...

Flexor digitorum profundus/superficialis indeed!  Sounds like a likely scenario for the symptoms she describes.  What does this mean?  It means Gail's story matches her continued symptoms, and it's likely something that can be treated and resolved quickly.  It means that following a thorough exam (to make sure we're not jumping to conclusions but evaluating the facts), we can gently treat these muscles in the palm side of her forearm and look for quick relief and comfort.

Happier ever after?  Yes.  But could have been much smoother.  Another chiropractor had told her that she had whiplash in her neck and that's what caused her pain.  He adjusted her neck for 6 weeks without improvement to her pain.  He told Gail she needed to stick with his program, and she would be better in a few months.  Disappointing!  She asked her primary care MD, and he prescribed her pain killers and told her to return if it didn't get better.  I wish he had known about the care we could provide.  I'm most glad that Gail is feeling better and able to use her hands without burning or pain.