I suggest researching "Hirayama's Disease". Very rare condition affecting anterior horn cells of spinal cord around C7 leading to weakness and wasting of hand with absence of pain or sensory loss. Typically seen in young males, although progressive, it is considered benign, stabilising after a few years. Cause essentially unknown, treatment experimental ranging from nothing, to extended use of hard collar to cervical fusion. Japanese researchers have also been doing studies with plasma exchange, though results have only been transient unless done in conjuction with immobilisation in a hard collar.My son was diagnosed last year and had C6/7 fusion which halted the progression and restored some strength and function.

Rosemary (Sydney 02 9521 4688 )