Numbness in Extremities

What is numbness in extremities?

Numbness in extremities, also called paresthesia, is the loss of sensation in your limbs. You won’t feel any pain, touch, or temperature with this type of numbness. You may, however, feel a tingling or prickling sensation.

Numbness in the extremities may affect any part of your arm or leg. Lack of sensation in your extremities may affect your ability to use the affected limb and may make it difficult for you to notice an injury or infection. 

What causes numbness in extremities?

Numbness in extremities most often occurs when you sit or lie too long in a position that compresses a nerve. With a few shakes, the numbness goes away. However, numbness in the extremities is also a symptom of many more serious health issues, including:

• Herniated disc
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Chronic kidney disease
• Stroke
• Tumor
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Fibromyalgia
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
• Thyroid disorders

Any condition that compresses or damages a nerve may cause numbness in the extremities. You may develop this uncomfortable sensation following surgery or treatment for a chronic condition (e.g., chemotherapy for cancer). 

When should I get medical help for numbness in my extremities?

You should get medical help for numbness in your extremities from the experts at Advanced Spine and Pain Center if your sensation is an ongoing problem. Without early diagnosis and treatment, the underlying cause of your symptoms may lead to permanent nerve damage.

Your provider at Advanced Spine and Pain Center reviews your symptoms and medical history and performs a physical exam. They may run diagnostic tests to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. Testing might include blood work, imaging studies, and nerve conduction studies.

What are the treatments for numbness in extremities?

Advanced Spine and Pain Center customizes your numbness in extremities treatment plan based on the underlying cause, the severity of your symptoms, and medical history. Treatment may include:

• Nerve pain medication
• Nerve blocks
• Epidural steroid injections
• Peripheral nerve stimulation
• Spinal cord stimulation
• VIA Disc™ NP

Your provider may also recommend disease-specific treatments contributing to your symptoms and physical therapy. When appropriate, the pain management experts may refer you to a surgeon for surgical intervention, like carpal tunnel release for carpal tunnel syndrome.

Ongoing numbness in extremities needs an evaluation from the experts at Advanced Spine and Pain Center. Call or book an appointment online today.