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What is Limb Numbness?

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Medical consultation

Dr. Luu Anh Hung

By Optimal365 Chiropractic
October 30, 2024
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Numbness is a condition characterized by a loss of sensation or a reduced sense of feeling in a part of the body, typically in the limbs (arms or legs). Numbness can occur temporarily due to improper sitting or standing positions, leading to nerve compression. Additionally, limb numbness may be a sign of underlying conditions that require timely diagnosis and treatment to avoid unpredictable complications such as complete loss of sensation, loss of motor control, muscle atrophy, or limb paralysis. Let’s explore the common causes of limb numbness and how to cope with them at Optimal365 Chiropractic!

What is Limb Numbness?

Limb numbness is a common syndrome associated with nerve disorders, particularly in today’s fast-paced and sedentary lifestyles. This condition is often accompanied by sharp, unusual pain, resembling needle pricks or tingling sensations. Additionally, individuals may experience symptoms like pain, loss of sensation in the affected area, or limb weakness. Such numbness is typically linked to peripheral nerve dysfunction.

The common areas in the arms and legs where numbness occurs include:

  • Fingers: Particularly the thumb, index finger, and middle finger. These fingers often experience numbness in carpal tunnel syndrome due to compression of the median nerve.
  • Palms: Numbness in the palms may occur when there are issues with the nerves, such as compression of the median or ulnar nerves.
  • Wrists and Elbows: Numbness often occurs at the wrists and elbows, which can be caused by nerve root irritation. Numbness in the wrist is commonly due to carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or joint issues that compress the nerves, including cervical spine degeneration, cervical disc herniation, or ulnar nerve compression at the elbow.
  • Toes: Numbness in the toes, especially the big toe, can result from diabetes, lumbar spine degeneration, or vascular disorders.
  • Feet: Numbness in the soles of the feet or the tops of the feet may be due to peripheral neuropathy, spine degeneration, or nerve compression in the lumbar region.
  • Ankles: Numbness in the ankles is often encountered when nerves are compressed or inflamed in the Achilles tendon area.
  • Calves and Thighs: Numbness in the calves and thighs is often related to lumbar disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or nerve compression due to poor blood circulation.
  • Legs Numbness: In the early stages, numbness manifests as a prickling sensation in the toes. Subsequently, a tingling sensation may appear in the thighs and legs, gradually spreading down to the buttocks and feet. If not treated promptly, it can lead to numbness and loss of sensation in both legs.
Numbness in the Arms and Legs is a Common Neurological Symptom
Numbness in the Arms and Legs is a Common Neurological Symptom

Symptoms of Numbness in the Arms and Legs

Individuals frequently experiencing numbness may exhibit the following symptoms:

  • Prickling or Tingling Sensation: A sensation of pins and needles or crawling insects on the skin, particularly in the fingers or toes.
  • Loss of Sensation or Decreased Sensation: Patients may lose sensation in the affected area, making grasping or moving difficult. In some cases, patients may be unable to perceive hot, cold, or pain sensations in the numb area
  • Pain or Burning Sensation in the Extremities: A feeling of aching or burning, especially at night, in the extremities.
  • Muscle Cramps: The sensation of cramping, spasms, and involuntary pain in the muscles, especially at night.
  • Tingling Sensation: A tingling feeling and aching that radiates down the arms and fingers, as well as the legs and toes.
  • Causing Pain in Other Muscle Areas: Numbness in the arms and legs is often accompanied by pain in the neck, shoulders, and gradually extends to other musculoskeletal areas.
  • Limited Mobility and Difficulty Walking: The numbness symptoms often spread throughout the arms, ankles, and calves. This condition typically occurs after physical activity, making walking difficult.
  • Muscle Weakness or Difficulty Moving: Prolonged numbness in the arms and legs can be accompanied by muscle weakness, making it challenging to move, hold objects, or walk.
Muscle Cramps and Tingling Sensations Are Symptoms of Numbness in the Arms and Legs
Muscle Cramps and Tingling Sensations Are Symptoms of Numbness in the Arms and Legs

Causes of Numbness in the Arms and Legs

Stress and Pressure Affecting the Nerves

Stress and pressure affecting the nerves are one of the causes of numbness in the arms and legs. This occurs when you sit or stand in the same position for an extended period, leading to restricted blood circulation and nerve compression. At this point, blood flow to the arms and legs is hindered, resulting in numbness.

Nerve Damage

Numbness can occur when there is damage to or compression of the nerves. For example, severe herniated discs can compress the nerves, causing persistent numbness and pain. Additionally, spinal issues such as cervical spondylosis, spinal osteophytes, and spinal arthritis can also compress or irritate the nerves, leading to disrupted nerve transmission and reduced motor function.

Nerve Damage Is a Cause of Numbness
Nerve Damage Is a Cause of Numbness

Musculoskeletal Disorders

Symptoms of numbness in the arms and legs can also be a warning sign of musculoskeletal disorders. There are many musculoskeletal conditions that can cause numbness, such as:

  • Symptoms of numbness in the arms and legs can also be a warning sign of musculoskeletal disorders. There are many musculoskeletal conditions that can cause numbness, such as:
  • Herniated Disc: A herniated disc occurs when the inner disc of the spine shifts, applying pressure on and compressing the nerves, leading to numbness in the limbs.
  • Joint Degeneration: When the cartilage in the joints of the hands, feet, and hips wears down, it can compress the nerves. This condition disrupts blood circulation, resulting in symptoms of numbness in the arms and legs.

Anemia or Vascular Disorders

Bone and joint diseases cause anemia and numbness
Bone and joint diseases cause anemia and numbness

Other Conditions:

Numbness in the Arms and Legs can result not only from musculoskeletal diseases but also from various other conditions, including:

Multiple Sclerosis: This condition, also known as an autoimmune disorder, directly affects the central nervous system. It damages the myelin sheath, leading to numbness in the fingertips and toes.

Diabetes: Complications from diabetes can cause nerve damage, leading to numbness in the arms and legs, a condition commonly referred to as diabetic neuropathy.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This syndrome causes swelling in the tendons, leading to compression of the nerves that pass through the wrist. As a result, it can cause numbness in the fingertips, with sensations spreading to the entire arm.

Stroke or Brain Disorders: Numbness in the arms and legs can be an early symptom of a stroke or other issues related to the central nervous system.

Spinal Stenosis: Herniated discs or spinal degeneration can compress the spinal canal, reducing sensation in the arms and legs. A blocked spinal canal can also affect blood circulation, which is a primary cause of numbness in the arms and legs.

Individuals Prone to Numbness in the Arms and Legs

Numbness in the arms and legs can affect individuals of all ages, from teenagers to the elderly. However, statistics indicate that this condition is most frequently found in specific groups, such as:

Elderly Individuals:

Numbness in the limbs is most prevalent among older adults due to the natural aging process, which results in a decline in the health of the nervous and vascular systems, leading to various impairments. According to the American Spine Association, up to 60% of individuals over the age of 50 experience symptoms related to spinal conditions, which can cause numbness in the arms and legs. Additionally, older adults are more likely to suffer from issues such as spinal degeneration, herniated discs, and arteriosclerosis—key contributors to limb numbness.

Elderly people are at extremely high risk of numbness.
Elderly people are at extremely high risk of numbness.

Individuals with Metabolic Disorders:

In addition to musculoskeletal diseases, metabolic disorders are also a common cause of numbness in the limbs. People with metabolic disorders tend to have a higher incidence of limb numbness.

This is primarily due to these diseases affecting the microcirculation, leading to a lack of blood supply to the nerves. The initial manifestation is often vascular spasms, resulting in loss of sensation in the fingertips and other muscles in the body.

Postpartum Women:

Numbness in the limbs is also a common symptom in postpartum women. During this time, the female body undergoes significant changes, including increased pressure on nerves and blood vessels, which can lead to numbness, especially in the hands and feet. Early signs often include a tingling sensation in the fingertips and toes, similar to being pricked by needles, which can gradually progress to cramping and sharp pain. This discomfort may also spread to other areas such as the calves, forearms, or buttocks.

Preventive Measures for Limb Numbness:

  • Reasonable Work and Rest Time: Sitting for long periods without breaks can cause muscle tension, nerve compression, and reduced blood circulation to the limbs, leading to numbness. After every 50 minutes of work, take 5-10 minutes to stand up, walk around, or perform stretching exercises. This helps relieve tension and pressure on the musculoskeletal system, especially in the neck, shoulders, and back.
  • Working posture: Sitting in an uncomfortable or incorrect position, positioning the computer at an improper height, or using a chair without lumbar support can cause muscle tension and strain in the neck and shoulders. To maintain a better working posture, ensure you sit correctly, adjust your computer to the appropriate height, and use a chair with proper lumbar support.
  • Exercise and Movement: When the body lacks physical activity, the muscles become weak, which hinders blood circulation and can lead to numbness or loss of sensation in the hands and feet. Regular exercise helps improve blood circulation to the limbs, enhancing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and nerves.
  • Balanced Diet: A balanced diet plays a crucial role in maintaining muscle health and blood circulation. Consuming too much sugar and fatty foods can obstruct blood flow and put stress on the musculoskeletal system. Limit your intake of fast food, sugar, and saturated fats. Instead, eat more vegetables, fruits, and foods rich in protein and fiber.
  • Effects of Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is essential for nerve function and maintaining the health of nerve cells. Vitamin B12 is involved in the production of the myelin sheath (the protective covering for nerves) and helps maintain blood circulation. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to neurological disorders, including numbness and imbalances.
Sitting Properly at Work to Minimize Symptoms of Numbness in Hands and Feet
Sitting Properly at Work to Minimize Symptoms of Numbness in Hands and Feet

Complications of Numbness in Hands and Feet if Not Treated Promptly

Many people often think that numbness in the hands and feet is a normal symptom. However, if the numbness occurs frequently and is not treated promptly, it can lead to several dangerous complications:

  • Permanent Nerve Damage: If left untreated, numbness can cause irreversible damage to the nervous system.
  • Reduced Sensation: Loss of sensation or reduced ability to feel increases the risk of injury, as one may not be aware of pain or temperature, leading to burns or injuries that go untreated.
  • Decreased Motor Function: Numbness in the hands and feet can cause muscle weakness and reduced motor function, decreasing the ability to perform daily tasks and negatively affecting quality of life.
  • Infections and Ulcers: For diabetic patients, numbness increases the risk of infections and the development of severe ulcers in the feet, which can sometimes lead to necrosis and the need for amputation to prevent the spread of infection.
  • Muscle Weakness and Atrophy: Frequent numbness can lead to muscle weakness and even muscle atrophy. This decline in sensation and muscle strength can increase the risk of falls, resulting in injuries.

Safe Treatment Protocol for Numbness in Hands and Feet – No Medications – No Surgery at Optimal365 Chiropractic

At Optimal365 Chiropractic, patients receive a diagnosis combined with in-depth treatment methods from our Chiropractic Doctors and highly specialized physiotherapist team. Our treatment protocol includes four stages: Chiropractic Adjustments – Specialized Muscle Therapy – High-Tech Therapy – Rehabilitation Exercises. We guarantee No Injections – No Medications – No Surgery.

The team of doctors and physiotherapists at Optimal365 Chiropractic is dedicated not only to relieving pain and reducing numbness but also to addressing the underlying causes and related symptoms. This approach allows us to create a personalized and effective treatment plan for each patient. At Optimal365, we combine the most advanced treatment methods, integrating physical therapy with precise spinal adjustments to help patients alleviate pain and achieve comprehensive recovery for their musculoskeletal health.

Safe Treatment Protocol for Numbness in Hands and Feet – No Medications – No Surgery at Optimal365 Chiropractic
Safe Treatment Protocol for Numbness in Hands and Feet – No Medications – No Surgery at Optimal365 Chiropractic

Addressing the Root Causes of Numbness in Hands and Feet with Chiropractic Adjustments

Chiropractic is a non-invasive treatment method for numbness in hands and feet that does not involve medications, surgery, or injections. This approach focuses on spinal alignment through gentle manipulation techniques. This helps alleviate pressure on the discs, reduce nerve compression, promote blood circulation, and lessen the symptoms of numbness. Chiropractic emphasizes addressing the root causes of the condition, aiding in the treatment of various musculoskeletal disorders:

  • Improve the strength and flexibility of muscles and the musculoskeletal system.
  • Enhance nutritional circulation, increasing the body’s self-healing ability for damaged musculoskeletal tissues.
  • Minimize the risk of joint paralysis and nerve paralysis.
Deep muscle therapy enhances the body's self-recovery capabilities.
Deep muscle therapy enhances the body’s self-recovery capabilities.

Heal internal damage in muscle tissues using advanced technology.

Optimal365 Chiropractic places special emphasis on investing in modern equipment and advanced machinery to provide safe and effective treatment methods. The treatment for numbness in hands and feet at Optimal365 Chiropractic is not only based on the combination of spinal adjustments and physical therapy but also utilizes high-tech solutions to support the healing process for musculoskeletal injuries:

  • Expand the spinal canal using advanced spinal traction machines, helping to reduce pressure on the discs and compressed nerves, assisting in pain relief and naturally restoring the discs to their original position.
  • Utilize advanced treatment devices such as laser machines, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to effectively and quickly reduce swelling and inflammation and alleviate pain.
  • Help release deep pelvic floor tension, accelerating the body’s natural recovery process five times faster than conventional methods.
Heal internal damage in muscle tissues using advanced technology.
Heal internal damage in muscle tissues using advanced technology.

Numbness in the hands and feet is a common symptom that affects not only the elderly but also adolescents, often resulting from conditions like spinal degeneration, herniated discs, or nerve compression. Without prompt treatment, this condition can lead to serious complications, including muscle paralysis, loss of mobility, and a significant decline in quality of life. We hope this article from Optimal365 Chiropractic has provided valuable insights into the causes of numbness in the hands and feet and highlighted the importance of early intervention. Please contact us today for timely consultation and support.

Reference source:

1. Pietrangelo, A. (2023, April 18). Why am I experiencing numbness and tingling? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/numbness-and-tingling

2. Mayo Clinic. (2023, June 8). Numbness in hands. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/numbness-in-hands/basics/causes/sym-20050842

3. Fletcher, J. (2024, January 23). Why do my arms go numb at night? Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322967

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