From the Guidelines
A patient with pinky numbness following an injury should be evaluated at the emergency room, especially if the numbness is sudden, severe, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, as indicated by the most recent clinical policy on acute blunt trauma 1. This type of numbness could indicate damage to the ulnar nerve, which supplies sensation to the pinky finger and half of the ring finger. Prompt medical evaluation is important because nerve injuries may require timely intervention to prevent permanent damage. Some key points to consider in the evaluation of such patients include:
- The potential benefits and harms of implementing recommendations are briefly summarized within each critical question, as outlined in the clinical policy 1.
- The importance of individual physician’s judgment and patient preferences, as recognized by the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) 1.
- The role of imaging studies, such as radiography, in the evaluation of acute hand and wrist trauma, as discussed in the ACR Appropriateness Criteria 1. At the emergency room, doctors can perform a proper neurological examination, order imaging studies if needed, and determine if consultation with a hand specialist or neurologist is necessary. While waiting for medical care, the patient should:
- Avoid further injury to the affected area
- Refrain from activities that worsen symptoms
- Take over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if pain is present, as these measures can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications. Delaying treatment for nerve injuries can lead to long-term complications including chronic pain, permanent numbness, or muscle weakness and atrophy in the affected hand.
From the Research
Evaluation of Pinky Numbness with Injury
If a patient experiences pinky numbness with an injury, it is essential to evaluate the severity and potential causes of the numbness.
- The patient's symptoms may be related to nerve damage, such as peripheral nerve injury 2 or ulnar nerve injury 3, 4.
- A thorough neurological assessment is necessary to detect life-threatening conditions, identify nervous system dysfunction, and determine the effects of the dysfunction on daily activities 5.
- The patient's symptoms, such as numbness in the pinky finger, may be indicative of a more serious condition, such as a neuromuscular disorder, which requires prompt evaluation and management 6.
Importance of Emergency Room Evaluation
- In cases of trauma or injury, it is crucial to evaluate the patient in the emergency room to rule out life-threatening conditions and provide appropriate treatment 3, 6.
- A delay in evaluation and treatment can lead to permanent damage, such as incomplete recovery of motor and/or sensory function, chronic pain, muscle atrophy, and profound weakness 2.
- The emergency room physician should be aware of the potential for nerve damage following injuries, such as shoulder dislocation, and ensure that appropriate follow-up plans are instituted on discharge 3.