Question
I wake up with my right hand numb. My thumb and middle finger seem the worst. It takes awhile for the numbness to wear off. I work in a grocery store, so I'm always on my feet and on the register. What should I do?
Answer
Numbness in the hand could be due to a number of factors. Typically we describe this as a "neuropathy" which means the nerve is not working normally. We have nerves that travel throughout our body and when they are not working normally, it is typically due to one of the following: compression of the nerve, irritation of the nerve (from surrounding tissue), or from chemicals in the body that cause the nerve to malfunction (i.e. high blood sugar).
In this case - numbness of the 1st(thumb), 2nd and/ or 3rd digit of the hand is very classic for carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition is due to compression (entrapment) of a nerve that supplies the hand - called the median nerve. In many cases this can be treated with a wrist brace and anti-inflammatory medications. It can also help to modify certain activities at work or home, such as repetitive activities like gripping. In some cases where these steps don't help, an injection of cortisone into the wrist, or surgery of the wrist, can provide relief.
I would suggest seeing your family doctor, who can evaluate the condition and prescribe the best treatment.