Fact Checked
Hand numbness simply means that there is no touch sensation. The symptoms of this condition include tingling or burning sensation, weakness of the affected area and sharp pain.
[youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RKExEIslZw”]Causes
- Exposure to cold objects
- Excessive pressure placed on the hands
- Excessive drinking
- Nerve injury
- Temporary compression of the nerve
- Smoking
Apply a warm compress on the affected area to help increase the circulation of blood in the affected area. - Fatigue
- Nutritional deficiency of vitamin B12 or magnesium
- Lack of activity
- Sometimes, it can be caused by certain conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, migraines, diabetes, multiple sclerosis and underactive thyroid
Hand numbness usually last for only a few minutes, but if experiencing numbness frequently and for long periods of time, it can be a symptom of underlying conditions and needs medical help immediately.
Treatment
- Apply a warm compress on the affected area to help increase the circulation of blood in the affected area. It also helps in relaxing the muscles and nerves in the area. Soak a washcloth in warm water, wring out excess water and place it on the affected area at least 5-7 minutes. Repeat this procedure several times until the numbness subsides. Another option is taking a warm shower or using a heating pad to help lessen the discomfort caused by numbness.
- Massage the hands when there is numbness since it helps promote proper circulation of blood and lessens the numbness in the affected area. Massage helps in stimulating the nerves and muscles for proper functioning. Dab on warm olive, mustard or coconut oil on the palm and apply on the affected area. Massage the area in circle-like movements using steady fingers for a minimum of 5 minutes and repeat several times as needed.
- Perform simple exercises to help promote proper circulation of blood and oxygen to all areas of the body and also for the prevention of numbness and tingling sensations in any part of the body particularly the hands. Perform simple exercises for the hands at least 15 minutes every day in the morning. While at work, exercise the arms, wrist and hands by performing curls and stretches. Cardiovascular exercises and aerobic exercises must be performed at least 30 minutes at 5 days every week to help with the condition. Taking a walk, jogging, bicycling or swimming regularly helps improve the circulation of blood in the area. Just make sure to stretch well before performing workouts and wear appropriate shoes and gear for exercise. Avoid performing high impact exercises to prevent numbness of the area.
- In a cup of milk, add a teaspoon of turmeric powder and heat in low fire. You can add a few drops of honey and drink it once every day to help improve blood circulation. Another option is to take a prescribed turmeric supplement every day.
- In a small tub filled with warm water, mix ½ cup of Epsom salt until completely dissolved. Soak the affected hands in the solution for at least 10 minutes. Perform this remedy several times in a week.
- Elevate the affected hands for several minutes can help improve circulation in the area and minimize the numbness.