
Q How do I know whether numbness can be watched with Korean medicine or needs a hospital first?
A If any of the following apply, testing and specialist care come first: sudden weakness in one arm or leg, slurred speech, noticeable loss of strength, difficulty controlling bladder or bowel, rapidly spreading numbness, or diabetes with dulled foot sensation and wounds that do not heal.
Detailed Answer
The following signs call for neurology or orthopaedics without delay.
- Sudden weakness in one arm or leg, or slurred speech
- Numbness with a clear drop in strength (dropping objects, the foot dragging)
- Difficulty controlling bladder or bowel, or dulled sensation around the groin
- Numbness spreading noticeably day by day
- Diabetes with dulled sensation in the feet and wounds that heal poorly
- The arm turning clearly pale, or sudden loss of strength in it
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
We check these items first at the clinic as well and refer you for testing when they apply. Releasing a compressed area is meaningful only after dangerous causes have been ruled out.
Related FAQs
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Orthopaedics and neurosurgery both did an MRI and found nothing. So why does the numbness continue?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
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I worry that numbness in the hands and feet is an early sign of a stroke or something serious. How do I tell?
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My toes have been numb for years. Surely it is beyond fixing by now?
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Along with numbness I have neck and shoulder stiffness, cold hands and feet, and fatigue. Are they connected?
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Is there something I can do right at my desk?
#Lifestyle Management
