Best Numbness Doctors in Chennai

Numbness is characterised by a lack of sensation or feeling, either completely or partially in certain parts of the body. Often, it is a symptom of nerve dysfunction and can be triggered by various health conditions. In most instances, cases of numbness are minor and do not lead to serious complications.

The city of Chennai is known for its advanced medical facilities and highly skilled doctors. At the Apollo Hospitals Chennai, a team of top professionals specialising in handling nerve-related disorders offer excellent care and treatment options for patients suffering from numbness. This is delivered by some of the best doctors for the treatment of nerve damage and numbness in the country.

Types of Numbness

Numbness can occur in varying degrees and durations depending on the underlying cause. There can be:

• Temporary/Transient Numbness: Numbness that comes and goes, lasting minutes to hours. This is often caused by pressure on a nerve or a temporary lack of blood flow.

• Persistent Numbness: Numbness that lasts for days, weeks or longer. This is typically due to an underlying condition affecting the nerves or circulation.

• Chronic/Permanent Numbness: Numbness that is long-lasting or permanent, often the result of nerve damage or a progressive neurological disorder.

Symptoms of Numbness

The symptoms associated with numbness can significantly vary in patients. Key symptoms to look out for include:

• A tingling or burning sensation in the affected area

• Can be associated with muscle weakness

• Pain or discomfort

• Sudden numbness in the arm, leg, or face, which could indicate a stroke

• Impaired ability to maintain stability

• Reduced response to stimuli

• Altered responses to touch or temperature

Tests to Diagnose Numbness

To identify the underlying cause of numbness, a range of tests may be carried out by doctors treating numbness and nerve damage at Apollo Hospitals including:

• Blood Tests: To check for vitamin deficiencies, diabetes, or other metabolic disorders.

• CT scan or MRI: To look for herniated discs, tumours, or other abnormalities.

• Nerve Conduction Studies: To measure the speed and strength of electrical signals travelling along peripheral nerves.

• Electromyography (EMG): To measure the electrical activity in muscles.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Numbness at Apollo Hospitals Chennai

Apollo Hospitals Chennai is dedicated to providing quality healthcare with a team of highly experienced doctors and neurosurgeons for numbness treatment. The treatment approach is tailored based on the cause, severity, and the patient's overall health. Some of the treatment options include:

• Medications: Medications such as nerve pain medications, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and corticosteroids are recommended.

• Physical Therapy: Exercises and techniques aimed at improving strength, flexibility, and nerve function can help alleviate numbness and improve mobility.

• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical interventions may be needed, such as in carpal tunnel syndrome or herniated disc.

• Nerve Blocks or Injections: Injections of corticosteroids or local anaesthetics near affected nerves can provide temporary relief from numbness and associated pain.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Changes such as ergonomic adjustments, weight management, and smoking cessation can help improve circulation and reduce nerve compression.