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Four years ago I was involved in a very severe auto accident. In it I damaged the nerve coming thru my left elbow, leaving my left hand pinky and ring finger feeling as though they are ‘asleep’ on their lower sides. It had been a real challenge in my daily job as I must do a lot of work on a keyboard. Out of my exasperation, I accidentally stumbled upon stretching, as outlined by Jumpinjeff’s suggestions. By his description it’s clear he has taken it to ‘another level’ and I plan on following the routine of which he spoke. Even the limited stretching exercises I’ve done have helped me a great deal. Largely, however, I have simply persevered through the numbness and focused on working the fingers harder than the others. When I play the speed challenges or scales I concentrate on the pinky and ring finger by playing them slowly and absolutely perfectly, while gradually building up speed on just those two digits. I continue until I am satisfied. They still are not 100% but my speed and strength is getting noticeably better. On an unrelated note, I have not yet explored acupuncture but, know several people who have benefited from such therapies involving similar issues. Hang in there and don’t get discouraged.