Numbness in Hands and Feet: Possible Causes and Solutions

Becoming prone to numbness in the hands and feet?

Hello, doctor.
I'm not sure when it started, but I've begun to experience numbness during movements that didn't cause it before.
For example, when I sleep with my hands on my chest, my hands become numb; when I sleep on my side, my legs get numb; and sometimes when I sit or lie down, there's a numb sensation in a specific area of my left buttock.
However, it doesn't happen all the time, which is quite strange! Recently, the intensity of the numbness has decreased, but I still feel a bit of it.
Could you please advise what might be the issue? Thank you!

ANAN, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/15

Dr. Li Yongheng reply Orthopedics

Based on your age and symptoms, these numb sensations are typically related to poor posture.
Therefore, it is recommended that you pay attention to your standing and sitting posture, maintain a light diet, and drink plenty of water.
Most symptoms should improve.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2017/08/15

More Info

Numbness in the hands and feet can be a concerning symptom, and it is essential to understand its potential causes and solutions. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing intermittent numbness in various parts of your body, particularly in your hands and feet, which can occur during certain positions while sleeping or sitting. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, including nerve compression, circulation issues, and even systemic conditions.

Possible Causes
1. Nerve Compression: One of the most common reasons for numbness is the compression of nerves. This can happen when you maintain a position that puts pressure on certain nerves, such as sleeping with your arms under your head or sitting with your legs crossed for an extended period. Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, where the median nerve is compressed at the wrist, can also lead to numbness in the hands.

2. Circulation Issues: Poor circulation can lead to numbness and tingling sensations. If blood flow is restricted, it can cause temporary numbness in the extremities. This can occur due to various reasons, including sitting or lying in one position for too long, or conditions like peripheral artery disease.

3. Systemic Conditions: Certain medical conditions can cause numbness as a symptom. Diabetes, for instance, can lead to diabetic neuropathy, which affects the nerves and can cause numbness in the hands and feet. Other conditions such as multiple sclerosis, vitamin deficiencies (especially B12), and thyroid disorders can also lead to similar symptoms.

4. Anxiety and Stress: Psychological factors can also contribute to physical symptoms. Anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which may cause tingling and numbness in the extremities. Stress can lead to muscle tension, which might compress nerves and lead to numbness.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Posture Awareness: Pay attention to your posture while sleeping and sitting. Try to avoid positions that put pressure on your arms or legs. Using supportive pillows and adjusting your seating arrangements can help alleviate pressure on nerves.

2. Regular Movement: If you find yourself sitting or lying down for long periods, make it a habit to change positions frequently. Stand up, stretch, and move around to promote circulation and relieve nerve compression.

3. Strengthening and Stretching Exercises: Engaging in regular physical activity can improve circulation and strengthen muscles, which may help alleviate some of the numbness. Stretching exercises, particularly for the neck, shoulders, and back, can help relieve tension that may be contributing to nerve compression.

4. Medical Evaluation: Since your symptoms have changed over time, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend tests such as nerve conduction studies or imaging to determine if there is an underlying condition that needs to be addressed.

5. Nutritional Considerations: Ensure that you are getting adequate nutrition, particularly vitamins that support nerve health, such as B vitamins. If you suspect a deficiency, consider discussing supplementation with your healthcare provider.

6. Stress Management: Incorporating stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or meditation can help manage anxiety and reduce muscle tension, potentially alleviating numbness.

In conclusion, while occasional numbness can be benign and related to posture, persistent or worsening symptoms warrant a medical evaluation to rule out serious underlying conditions. By being proactive about your posture, movement, and overall health, you can help mitigate the symptoms you are experiencing. If the numbness persists or worsens, please seek medical attention for a comprehensive assessment.

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