Why Yoga Practice Can Cause Numbness in Fingers: Expert Insights

Numbness in the fingers after practicing yoga?

Dr.
Jiang: Hello! One day while practicing the cat stretch in yoga, when I stretched my legs back to the maximum, I suddenly felt a tingling, electric sensation in my fingers.
Later, during a movement where I squatted with my hands on the ground and then jumped my legs back while inhaling, I felt a sudden electric sensation in eight of my fingers (excluding the two thumbs).
The fingertips of the first phalanx of the eight fingers felt tingling, while the second phalanx was numb, and the area below the little finger on the palm was also numb.
I am fifty years old and have been practicing yoga for over a year without experiencing this before, until this incident occurred last week.
What could be the cause of this? How can I prevent it? Should I see a neurologist? Thank you very much, Dr.
Jiang!

Miss Yang, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/29

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Ms.
Yang,
You mentioned, "When I place both hands on the ground and then jump my legs back while inhaling, I suddenly feel a shock sensation in my eight fingers (excluding my thumbs)." This symptom may suggest compression of the ulnar nerve and possibly some involvement of the median nerve at the wrist.

Symptoms of peripheral nerve compression include:
1.
Pain characterized by a burning or electric shock sensation.

2.
Symptoms that have a specific dermatomal distribution, which can be triggered by touch or pressure.

3.
Accompanied by muscle weakness or fatigue.
Examinations for peripheral nerve issues typically involve electrophysiological studies to assist in diagnosis.

- Nerve conduction studies: Assess the conduction velocity and waveform of large fiber nerves.

- Electromyography (EMG): Evaluates muscle response in the areas supplied by the affected nerves.
I recommend increasing your intake of B vitamins and reminding yourself to stand up and stretch every half hour to avoid exacerbating symptoms due to nerve compression and muscle tightness.
If symptoms persist, I suggest visiting a neurology clinic for further evaluation, preferably with a physician specializing in peripheral nerves, as they have more experience with EMG testing.
Thank you for your inquiry.
If you have further questions, feel free to discuss! Wishing you good health and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi,
Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2023/10/29

More Info

Experiencing numbness or tingling sensations in the fingers during yoga practice can be concerning, and it’s essential to understand the potential causes and preventive measures. The symptoms you described, particularly during specific poses like the cat stretch and while transitioning into a squat with hands on the ground, may be attributed to several factors related to nerve compression, muscle tension, or improper alignment.

Possible Causes of Numbness in Fingers During Yoga
1. Nerve Compression: Certain yoga poses can put pressure on the nerves that run from the neck down to the arms and fingers. For instance, positions that involve bending the wrists or holding the arms in a certain way for extended periods can compress the median or ulnar nerves, leading to sensations of tingling or numbness.

2. Poor Posture or Alignment: If your alignment is off during yoga practice, it can lead to undue stress on certain muscles and nerves. For example, if your shoulders are hunched or your wrists are flexed excessively, it can create tension that affects nerve pathways.

3. Muscle Tension: Tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, or upper back can contribute to nerve compression. If these areas are tense, they can restrict blood flow and nerve function, resulting in numbness or tingling in the fingers.

4. Circulation Issues: Holding certain poses for too long can impede blood flow to the extremities. If your blood circulation is compromised, it can lead to sensations of numbness.

5. Underlying Medical Conditions: Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, cervical radiculopathy, or thoracic outlet syndrome can also lead to similar symptoms. These conditions may not be directly related to yoga but can be exacerbated by certain movements or positions.

Preventive Measures
1. Modify Your Practice: If you notice that certain poses consistently lead to numbness, consider modifying them. For example, you might try adjusting the angle of your wrists or the position of your arms to alleviate pressure on the nerves.

2. Focus on Alignment: Pay close attention to your body alignment during yoga. Ensure that your shoulders are relaxed and your wrists are in a neutral position. Engaging a qualified yoga instructor to help you with alignment can be beneficial.

3. Warm-Up and Stretch: Incorporate a thorough warm-up before your yoga session to prepare your muscles and joints. Focus on stretching the neck, shoulders, and arms to reduce tension.

4. Take Breaks: If you feel any tingling or numbness, take a break from the pose. Shake out your hands and arms, and gently stretch to relieve any tension.

5. Consult a Professional: If the symptoms persist, it may be wise to consult a healthcare professional, such as a neurologist or a physical therapist. They can assess your symptoms, conduct necessary tests, and provide tailored advice.

When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience persistent numbness, weakness, or pain that does not resolve with rest or modification of your yoga practice, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can evaluate for any underlying conditions that may require treatment.
In summary, while yoga is generally a safe and beneficial practice, it’s essential to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed. By being mindful of your alignment, modifying poses, and addressing any underlying issues, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of yoga without discomfort.

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