Question:
Why is my arm going numb?

I am pre-op and recently my arm has been going numb. I have no idea what it is from but thought it mind be blood flow because of my weight. It is very annoying and painful. Any thoughts?    — [Anonymous] (posted on August 26, 2001)

August 25, 2001
I had the same problem, but after losing alot of weight, it disappeared. I think mine was just poor circulation. You still probably should ask your doctor because it may be something else.
   — blank first name B.

August 25, 2001
I am who posted this question. I know it is not really about WLS but it is killing me. I did not sleep last night, I can't pick up anything with myright hand, it is sore from my should to my fingers. I'm afraid it is going to fall off - at least that is what it feels like. I would go see my PCP but today s sunday - HELP!!!!
   — [Anonymous]

August 25, 2001
you may very well have a pinched nerve in your neck. Also it could be a sign of something more serious like a stroke. I would call the help line at your doctors office and ask them what they suggest to do. Dont wait!
   — Dawn H.

August 25, 2001
If your doctor is anything like mine he'd be horrified to know you were in that much pain and under so much stress but that you didnt use the emergency number... call him.
   — peggy Y.

August 26, 2001
It might be carpel tunnel syndrome. I had surgery on my right hand about 11 years ago and it went away. The past few years when I started putting on more and more weight, my left hand started hurting more and more and would go to sleep all the time. The pain would go up into my arm and shoulder and just ache! It was usually worse at night and sometimes I would just beat my wrist and arm on the headboard of my bed, as it felt better than the pain. Since I have lost weight after surgery, I do not have any of these problems at all. As with the other posters, I agree that you need to call your doctor. They can tell you for sure what the problem is.
   — gina P.

August 26, 2001
I have had the numbness in my arm that you describe...and have been dxed with not only carpal tunnel sydrome (had CTS surgery on my right wrist already, and need to get the left one done), but also an ulnar nerve compression, an ulnar nerve impingement, and epicondylitis (golfer's elbow...I don't golf). BUT, numbness in the arms can be a signal of something going wrong with your heart and SHOULD NOT BE IGNORED! I would go to your ER ASAP and at least ease your mind about it being related to heart problems. If it is carpal tunnel or otherwise, there are many, many things you can do such as splinting, physical therapy, cold and heat treatments, and surgery that can ease or get rid of that horrible pain. I know exactly what you're talking about. I let my carpal tunnel go for 3 years and now have permanent nerve damage in my right hand that could not be totally cleared by the CTS surgery. Much good luck with this. Hugs, Joy
   — [Deactivated Member]