A member asked:

Possibly reasons why my pinky and ring finger on my left hand are losing their strength and feeling? just recently a couple of months ago. i started losing some of the strength in some of my fingers on my left hand. i'm having a hard time squeezing just a

4 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Francis Dysarz answered

Specializes in Hand Surgery

I : I agree with dr. Press's answer from several hours ago today. The most likely site of compression of the ulnar nerve is at the elbow or "funny bone" area. If you are sleeping or doing other activities with your elbow fully flexed significantly for long periods of time, this can put traction on the ulnar nerve at the elbow and lead to your symptoms, possibly. You could consider wrapping and taping your arm in a towel at the elbow snugly when you sleep at night, to prevent the elbow from flexing. Pre- fabricated elbow splints can be obtained from medical supply stores. Splint can also be fabricated by occupational therapists to keep the elbow straight, but only with a physician's prescription. The key is not to allow the elbow to be flexed more than 45° in order to keep traction off of the ulnar nerve.

Answered 10/3/2016

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Dr. Brian Chimenti answered

Specializes in Sports Medicine

While : While i completely agree with the two previous responses, it is important to understand that there are other places where compression of the nerves could be causing your complaints. The elbow is definitely the most common location, but other possibilities could include a pinched nerve in your neck. As the other physicians suggested, further evaluation by a doctor is warranted.

Answered 10/3/2016

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Dr. Barry Press answered

Specializes in Plastic Surgery

Grip : Grip strength primarily comes from the little and ring fingers and is largely controlled by the ulnar nerve (this is the nerve at your elbow that is commonly called "the funny bone." when there is weakness in these fingers, it may be caused by compression of this nerve at several sites along its course, just as in carpal tunnel syndrome (a different nerve.) if this persists or worsens, you should see a competent hand surgeon or a competent neurologist for an examination. Good luck!

Answered 7/31/2018

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