Numbness and tingling

Definition

Numbness and tingling are abnormal sensations that can occur anywhere in your body, but are often felt in your hands, feet, arms, or legs.

Alternative Names

Causes

There are many possible causes:

• Remaining in the same seated or standing position for a long time
• Injury to a nerve -- for example, a neck injury may cause you to feel numbness anywhere along your arm or hand, while a low back injury can cause numbness or tingling down the back of your leg
• Pressure on the spinal nerves such as that due to a herniated disk
• Lack of blood supply to an area -- for example, plaque buildup from atherosclerosis in the legs can cause pain, numbness, and tingling while walking (this is called vascular claudication)
• Other medical conditions, including:
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Diabetes
  • Migraines
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Seizures
  • Stroke
  • Transient ischemic attack (TIA)
  • Underactive thyroid
• Abnormal levels of calcium, potassium, or sodium in your body
• A lack of vitamin B12 or other vitamin
• Certain medications
• Toxic action on nerves, such as that from lead, alcohol, or tobacco
• Radiation therapy

References

Viera AJ. Management of carpal tunnel syndrome. Am Fam Physician. 2003; 68(2): 265-272.

Smeal WL, Tyburski M, Alleva J, Prather H, Hunt D. Conservative management of low back pain, part I. Discogenic/radicular pain. Dis Mon. 2004; 50(12): 636-669.