We’ve all felt it—that “pins and needles” sensation in the hands that can range from mildly annoying to downright scary. While occasional numbness may not be alarming, persistent or frequent tingling in your hands can signal something more serious. In this detailed article, we’ll break down the most common reasons behind this sensation, supported by medical research, and guide you on what to do if it keeps happening.
📌 What Is Numbness or Tingling in the Hands?
Numbness and tingling (also called paresthesia) feel like:
- Pins and needles
- Burning
- Reduced sensitivity or total loss of feeling
- A crawling sensation under the skin
It can affect one or both hands and may come and go or persist for long periods.
🧠 1. Nerve Compression or Entrapment
➤ Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
One of the most common causes of hand tingling, CTS occurs when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist.
Symptoms:
- Tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
- Weak grip
- Symptoms worse at night
📊 According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, CTS affects about 3-6% of adults in the U.S.
➤ Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Caused by pressure on the ulnar nerve, often at the elbow.
Symptoms:
- Tingling in the ring and pinky fingers
- Elbow pain
- Numbness that worsens with arm bending
🩺 2. Cervical Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve in the Neck)
A herniated disc or arthritis in the neck can pinch nerves that run down into your arms and hands.
Signs:
- Neck pain
- Radiating numbness into the arm or hand
- Weakness in the arm
🔬 A study published in the journal “Spine” found that cervical radiculopathy is a common cause of hand paresthesia in adults over 40.
🩸 3. Poor Circulation
When blood flow is reduced to your hands, nerves don’t get enough oxygen.
Causes include:
- Cold temperatures (temporary constriction)
- Atherosclerosis
- Raynaud’s disease
Raynaud’s is a condition where blood vessels in fingers spasm in response to cold or stress.
📚 The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute estimates that Raynaud’s affects about 5% of the U.S. population, mostly women.
💉 4. Diabetes (Diabetic Neuropathy)
High blood sugar levels over time can damage nerves, especially in extremities.
Symptoms:
- Tingling in both hands (or feet)
- Burning pain
- Numbness
- Loss of coordination
🔎 According to the CDC, about 50% of people with diabetes will develop peripheral neuropathy.
🧬 5. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
An autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks nerve coverings, MS can cause a variety of neurological symptoms.
Hand Symptoms Include:
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