Hand muscle wasting

DaveUK · #1 (**permalink**) 10-03-2008, 11:07 AM

I have musle wasting on my left hand, I cant grip things any longer and it looks like it is related to diabetes 2 neuropathy. There is now a hollow below my thumb where it would normally have muscle. This came on very quickly and I am wondering if anyone else has experienced this?

Thanks Dave Type 2 on diet only.

notme · #2 (**permalink**) 10-03-2008, 12:15 PM

Wow Dave, I have really never heard of this. Has your doctor suggested anything to help fix this? Is there exercises or any other form of therapy that can replace that lost muscle?

I am so sorry, this must be very frustrating for you.

DaveUK · #3 (**permalink**) 10-03-2008, 12:25 PM

Hi Nancy, I am still waiting to see my doctor as this just came on over the last day or two, but from what I read on the net it is something to do with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, a compression neuropathy, I believe there is some surgery can be done to help if it is this.

Dave

notme · #4 (**permalink**) 10-03-2008, 12:28 PM

Yes. I am sure if it is carpal tunnel, they can do a release. I hope you get in to see your doctor soon. If your hand is being affected, you need to get in there and get this surgery done. Are you splinting your hand? I am no doctor, but sounds like you need to give that hand some support.

I am having surgery on my stupid foot again. I know how frustrating this must be for you.

DaveUK · #5 (**permalink**) 10-03-2008, 03:29 PM

Good luck with your surgery Nancy, it certainly is frustrating isn't it. Only recently I felt like I was doing really well as my eyesight suddenly improved due to better BS control, but now this is a bit of a set back.

Dave

Fenway · #6 (**permalink**) 10-03-2008, 05:27 PM

I've had Carpal Tunnel for years, long before the onset of my diabetes.

Wear the splint, especially at night. Find a small, soft ball and squeeze it periodically during the day. That will help with the muscle wasting.

DaveUK · #7 (**permalink**) 10-03-2008, 05:42 PM

Thanks Fenway, yes I read that anyone can get this but I also read it is more common in people with diabetes. Unfortunately for me I am a watchmaker and this is really making it difficult to do my work. I will try squeezing a ball, but am not sure how I can do my work wearing a splint.

Thanks Dave

Fenway · #8 (**permalink**) 10-03-2008, 05:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DaveUK

Thanks Fenway, yes I read that anyone can get this but I also read it is more common in people with diabetes. Unfortunately for me I am a watchmaker and this is really making it difficult to do my work. I will try squeezing a ball, but am not sure how I can do my work wearing a splint.

Thanks Dave

I don't wear my splints during the day time, unless I am having lots of pain. I normally just put them on at bedtime.

DaveUK · #9 (**permalink**) 10-03-2008, 05:58 PM

Ok, thanks for that info.

HelenM · #10 (**permalink**) 10-04-2008, 02:50 AM

Dave, Both my parents (non diabetic)have had carpal tunnel operations under the NHS . Please emphasise the muscle wastage and get something done quickly.
My Mother didn't really tell them how much useage she had lost and she was content to wait ages for the operation. She has not regained full use of the hand.
My father learned from her mistake and his operation was successful. He had it done quickly, ie he pushed for it. He had a nerve conduction test (sp) done privately (I think using HSA insurance) then the consultant took him on as an NHS patient.

Kanga · #11 (**permalink**) 10-04-2008, 03:57 AM

That isnt good about your wrist I hope you find a solution soon.

DaveUK · #12 (**permalink**) 10-04-2008, 04:45 AM

Thanks Kanga, thanks Helen, that is really helpful to know it is urgent to get it operated on quickly Helen... I am really so grateful for this information, thanks Dave.

DaveUK · #13 (**permalink**) 10-11-2008, 12:38 PM

Helen, How quicky do you think I need to get the nerve conduction test done? Currently I have an appointment to have it done mid November. From my searches it sounds like it might be the Ulnar nerve as all strength has gone in my index finger. Thanks Dave

notme · #14 (**permalink**) 10-11-2008, 12:47 PM

I have radial nerve neuropathy Dave, but have not suffered from muscle wasting. I would see if you can push the appointment up if possible, just to get the ball rolling. If you wait until November and then surgery is not scheduled until after that, it could take a toll on your work. I really wish you the best. So frustrating when you know what needs to be done and nobody but you seems to see the urgency of your situation.

I would call and just let the clinic know how this is affecting your livelyhood.

DaveUK · #15 (**permalink**) 10-12-2008, 03:56 PM

Thanks Nancy, did you have to have an operation? How long have you had that and how have you been managing with it?
Dave