Fact Checked
Numbness in one or both hands is a condition where there loss of feeling or sensations in the hands or fingers. It is also characterized sensations such as pins-and-needles and burning or tingling sensations. The area feels weak or clumsy. The numbness can happen on a single nerve or symmetrically in both hands.
Numbness of hands is usually due to irritation or compression and damage in one nerve or a branch of the one of the nerves in the wrist and arm.
Causes of numbness in hands
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Amyloidosis which is the abnormal accumulation of proteins in the organs
- Excessive drinking of alcohol
- Brachial plexus injury
- Ganglion cysts
- Cervical spondylosis
Apply warm compress on the affected area for proper flow of blood in the area and relax the nerves and muscles in the area. - Lyme disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- HIV/AIDS
- Spinal cord injury
- Stroke
- Peripheral neuropathy
Treatment
- Apply warm compress on the affected area for proper flow of blood in the area and relax the nerves and muscles in the area. soak a clean washcloth in warm water, wring out excess water and then place it on the area for at least 5-7 minutes for several times every day until numbness subsides. Another alternative is using a heating pad wrapped in a towel before placing to the area is also good for the condition. Avoid heat directly on the skin to prevent further irritation and worsen the condition. Taking a warm shower also relieves of the discomforts.
- Perform gentle exercises for the hand every day in the morning and during rest from work. Perform curling and stretches for the arms, wrist, hands and legs for at least 15 minutes. Aerobic and cardiovascular exercises for at least 30 minutes, 5 times per week to lessen the symptoms of the condition. Walking, jogging, bicycling or swimming regularly to increase circulation of blood and prevent the numbness and tingling sensations in the hands and other areas of the body.
- Put warm olive, mustard or coconut oil in the palm and then apply to the numb area. Massage the area in circular movements using the fingers for at least 5 minutes. Massage stimulates the muscles and nerve for proper functioning, increase circulation of blood and lessens the numbness.
- In a small tub filled with warm water, add ½ cup of Epsom salt. Mix them well until salt is totally dissolved and then soak the affected hands for at least 10 minutes to lessen the numbness. Epsom salt has magnesium sulfate crystals and raises the levels of magnesium and for proper flow of blood in the area. Avoid this treatment if suffering from kidney problems or diabetes.
- Take the prescribed pain medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin to lessen the pain and the inflammation.
- Elevate the affected area above the level of the heart to increase flow of blood and lessen the numbness. Place hands in couple of pillows to keep it elevated.