Numbness in Hands and Feet: Causes and Solutions

Q: Numbness in Hands and Feet: Causes and Solutions

Hello： If you do not experience numbness while lying down, your symptoms may suggest localized nerve compression. <br>This can occur when sleeping on your stomach, which may compress the radial nerve in both arms, or when sitting, which may compress the sciatic nerve and the post

Numbness in hands and feet?

Hello Dr.
Jiang: I apologize for the interruption.
I have a medical concern that I would like to consult with you.
For the past three months, every time I take a nap during my lunch break (lying face down for about 10 to 20 minutes), I wake up with numbness in both my hands and feet (this happens almost every time).
I also have a history of hypertension and am currently on medication for it.
Could you please advise me on how to treat or improve the numbness in my hands and feet? Thank you for your help, Dr.
Jiang.

Rick, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/09

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: If you do not experience numbness while lying down, your symptoms may suggest localized nerve compression.
This can occur when sleeping on your stomach, which may compress the radial nerve in both arms, or when sitting, which may compress the sciatic nerve and the posterior tibial nerve.
Common clinical symptoms include sensations of numbness, burning, tingling, or prickling in the areas supplied by the affected nerves.
It is advisable to consult a neurologist or a rehabilitation specialist who can discuss your symptoms and provide a diagnosis based on the areas of nerve numbness you described, or arrange for nerve conduction studies.
Wishing you good health and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang from the Neurology Department cares about you.

Reply Date: 2018/07/09

More Info

Numbness in the hands and feet, especially when it occurs consistently after a specific position during sleep, can be concerning and is often indicative of underlying issues. In your case, experiencing numbness upon waking after a short nap, particularly when sleeping face down, suggests that your sleeping position may be contributing to this sensation.

Possible Causes of Numbness
1. Nerve Compression: When you sleep in a position that puts pressure on your arms or legs, it can compress the nerves, leading to temporary numbness or tingling. For instance, sleeping on your stomach can compress the nerves in your arms, especially if your head is turned to one side.

2. Circulation Issues: If blood flow to your extremities is restricted due to your sleeping position, it can result in numbness. This is often temporary and resolves once you change positions.

3. Peripheral Neuropathy: Conditions like diabetes, vitamin deficiencies (especially B12), or other metabolic disorders can lead to peripheral neuropathy, which causes numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hands and feet.

4. Cervical or Lumbar Issues: Problems in the cervical spine (neck) or lumbar spine (lower back) can lead to nerve compression, resulting in numbness in the extremities. Conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis can contribute to these symptoms.

5. High Blood Pressure and Medication: Since you mentioned having high blood pressure and being on medication, it’s worth considering that some antihypertensive medications can have side effects that include numbness or tingling.

Recommendations for Improvement
1. Adjust Sleeping Position: Try to avoid sleeping on your stomach. Instead, sleep on your back or side with proper support for your arms and legs. Using a body pillow can help maintain a comfortable position.

2. Stretching and Movement: Incorporate gentle stretching exercises before bed and upon waking. This can help improve circulation and reduce nerve compression.

3. Regular Breaks: If you find yourself in a position that may cause numbness during the day (like sitting for long periods), take regular breaks to move around and stretch.

4. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Since you have a history of high blood pressure, it’s essential to discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider. They may recommend tests to rule out conditions like peripheral neuropathy or cervical spine issues.
5. Review Medications: Discuss with your doctor whether your current medications could be contributing to your symptoms. They may adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

6. Physical Therapy: If nerve compression or musculoskeletal issues are suspected, physical therapy may be beneficial. A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen the muscles and improve posture, which can alleviate pressure on nerves.

7. Lifestyle Modifications: Maintain a healthy diet, manage your blood pressure effectively, and ensure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins, which are crucial for nerve health.

Conclusion
In summary, while occasional numbness after a specific sleeping position can be benign, persistent or worsening symptoms warrant further investigation. It’s essential to address any underlying health issues, particularly given your history of high blood pressure. By making some adjustments to your sleeping habits and consulting with a healthcare professional, you can work towards alleviating these symptoms and improving your overall health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Persistent Numbness in Hands and Feet: Possible Causes and Solutions

Hello Doctor, since September 25th, I have been experiencing numbness in my fingers upon waking up. Initially, I thought it would resolve on its own, but by September 26th, the numbness extended to my toes and the soles of my feet. As of now, October 31st, the numbness in both my...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Dear Ms. Apple, You mentioned that "blood tests, nerve conduction studies, and spinal tap examinations all reported normal results, and the cerebrospinal fluid analysis was also normal, with only a noted slowing of nerve conduction." You pointed out abnormal sensory ne...

Understanding Numbness and Tingling in Hands and Feet: Causes and Solutions

I have been experiencing numbness in both my hands and feet for over a week now, with less sensation in my thighs and upper arms. Most of the numbness is in my palms and soles, with a larger area affected on the left side compared to the right. Recently, I have started to feel sl...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Based on your description, you mentioned sudden neurological deficits such as limb weakness and slurred speech. The first consideration should be cerebrovascular disease. As for the bilateral limb paresthesia you mentioned, it may be necessary to consider metabolic issues such as...

Understanding Numbness in Hands and Feet: Possible Causes and Solutions

I have recently noticed a numbness in my fingers and the soles of my feet, similar to having a layer of skin over them. A few days ago, I experienced numbness in my right fingers while sleeping, which made me uncomfortable and unable to sleep. The next day, the numbness was gone,...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello, Sir: You mentioned experiencing a "numbness in your fingers and the soles of your feet." If this occurs bilaterally, it may be worth considering hyperventilation. This can lead to systemic reactions and symptoms, with common manifestations including vasoconstrict...

Understanding Mild Numbness in Hands and Feet: Possible Causes and Solutions

Hello, my mother is 59 years old. She often feels a slight tingling in her hands and feet, which is not too severe, and it seems to be spreading. She has undergone a full-body examination at the hospital, but no issues were found. She also does not have diabetes. Could you please...

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
The cause of numbness may be neuropathy or poor blood circulation. It is recommended to try soaking in warm water to see if it improves; if it does, it may be due to poor blood circulation.