A common problem for many is numbness, tingling, or a prickly pain in the hands or fingers. This happens when the blood flow to the hands decreases or the nerves in the hands are compressed or damaged in some way. Here are the main reasons that lead to this:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is the most important cause of hand numbness. This is a condition in which the ‘Median Nerve’, which goes from our wrist to the palm, gets compressed in the narrow passage there. People who use the computer keyboard regularly, sewing workers, those who use their mobile phones excessively, and housewives who wash dishes or wring clothes at home, experience numbness due to pressure on this nerve.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Vitamin B12 is essential for the healthy functioning of our nervous system. When its levels decrease in the body, the protective covering of the nerves in the hands and feet gets damaged, causing numbness and tingling in both the hands and feet (Peripheral Neuropathy). This vitamin deficiency is more common in vegetarians.
Uncontrolled diabetes (Diabetic Neuropathy): Prolonged high blood sugar levels damage the small blood vessels to the nerves in the hands and feet. As a result, the nerves do not receive proper oxygen and nutrients, and you start to experience severe numbness and tingling in the hands.
Cervical Spondylosis: Degeneration of the cervical spine or a herniated disc can cause severe pressure on the nerves that run from there to the hands. As a result, numbness and tingling can spread to the hands even if there is no pain in the neck.
Sitting and lying in the same position: Sleeping with your hands under your head for a long time, or sitting with your hands folded, can temporarily block blood flow and pinch the nerves. This can quickly lead to numbness in the hands, but it can be quickly relieved by moving your hands a little.
