I have had numbness on my left pinky and part of my ring finger for the past 3 weeks can it be from lifting a heavy object i lifted a full paint bucket using my left arm only and my pinky and ring fingers have been numb since

Numbness : Numbness in the left pinkie and the pinkie-finger side of the ring finger is usually caused by an injury to the ulnar nerve. In addition to lifting heavy objects (called a "traction" injury), the nerve can frequently be injured by compression, usually at the elbow, forearm, wrist or hand. Similar feelings can sometimes also be caused by nerve problems in the neck, or in an interchange of nerves called the brachial plexus. It takes a careful neurological examination, often aided by the use of nerve conduction study / electromyography to tell the difference between these problems. Treatment can include splinting, surgery, or hand therapy (usually done by occupational therapists). Left undiagnosed and untreated, problems can get worse and can lead to things including permanent weakness in the hand. Neurologists who are board certified in neurology and board certified in electrodiagnostic medicine may be most helpful.