Bob, I like aero bars, but it can be difficult to set up a good fit for both them and handle bars. I've used aero bars with fixed and flip up elbow pads and in a recreational role the flip up design like the Profile Airstrike is better as it allows access for most of the handle bar tops.
Finger numbness has a number of causes. A search here or on the other forums may have the answer for you.
Brad