Weakness Query

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jimobrien

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I have been experiencing ongoing symptoms, primarily in my right hand. I've read the introductory post to this thread (an outstanding resource) and am hoping for clarification on whether my thought process is correct.

Mostly, I appreciate the individuals managing this forum taking time out of their days.

I have felt ongoing slight weakness in my right hand, mostly along the outside of my thumb and sometimes between my ring and pinkie finger. Weakness is also sometimes felt in the right forearm (top, bottom, and side) and the inside of my bicep.

The weakness is not about failure (I know), as I am still able to perform daily tasks and my strength does not appear to have changed. I am right handed, and am able to grip and throw a football, open jars, etc.

Bloodwork is normal. MRI is normal. I have met with a neurologist. He performed a neurological exam, which did not detect weakness.

From what I understand, these symptoms do not suggest ALS, as the weakness does not seem to have affected my ability to perform tasks. In addition, I am noticing the symptoms in multiple different parts of my arm without getting to the point of failure, which from what I understand is not a typical presentation of ALS.

The nagging concern is that these symptoms could be the beginning of my strength being affected, eventually leading to failure, though again from what I understand symptoms of muscle failure (as opposed to slight weakness) are often what is first detected.

Thank you for reviewing this! The forum is an outstanding resource. And thank you for taking the time.
 
That's not how ALS works. Most likely you have an irritated nerve, as can occur from hyperextension, pressure, or long-term repetitive movement in work, sports, watching TV, sleep, etc. With the side of the pinky involved, I would look at your football grip. Sometimes as we age, we need stretches/movement before playing that we didn't need before.

Of course, if it doesn't improve, you can ask about a PT referral or a hand specialist (orthopod), but there is probably something you can do in terms of daily positioning and warm-ups.

Best,
Laurie
 
Truly the introductory post made it very clear that what you are feeling is not the beginning of strength being affected. Please go read it again very carefully.
Follow the advice then from lgelb and I wish you the best.
 
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