What Causes Numbness In Fingers and How Can You Relieve It?

Have you ever had to deal with a hand that fell asleep? Usually, numbness and static in your hand are enough to alert you of the misplaced feeling. And although it might feel odd at first, with little movement, the numbness tends to go away. But what if it doesn’t?

What if the effects make their way to the tips of your fingers, causing them to tingle and freeze up? How are you supposed to relieve the numbness from your fingers, then?

If you’ve had to deal with a sudden yet extreme feeling like that, perhaps the cause isn’t a simple pinched nerve but something more serious.

What Causes Your Fingers To Go Numb?

In most cases, numbness in hands and fingers is caused by a pinched or pressed nerve. This is what makes your hand feel like it fell asleep. However, numb fingers, paired with an aching thumb and wrist, lead to a completely different story.

If your hand frequently aches and goes numb, it could be due to any of the following conditions:

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Cervical Radiculopathy
  • Diabetes
  • Raynaud’s Disease
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Stroke
  • Multiple Sclerosis

How To Relieve Numbness In Fingers

No matter what causes numbness in the tips of your fingers, there are numerous ways to relieve the pressure. For instance, you can start by using compresses on the affected area or work on keeping your hands warm. If that doesn’t work, you can try some of the techniques mentioned below to relieve numbness in your fingers.

Although, in case of constant finger numbness, consult a rheumatologist for further insight and evaluation.

OTC Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relief medications and topical menthol can work wonders. Especially if it’s to ease pain and numbness in hands.

Wear a Brace or Splint

Your posture and hand position matter a lot. Thus, wearing a hand brace or splint can keep your wrist straight. Moreover, it will also help to ease the pressure on your median nerve. Apply Ice

Surprisingly, a cold compress is great for relieving hand pain, especially carpal tunnel syndrome.

  1. Take Plenty of Breaks
    Your fingers need plenty of rest, and if you find your hands constantly getting numb, breaks can help minimize the frozen effects.
  2. Exercise And Stretch As Often As You Can
    If your job requires you to use your hands a lot, finger stretches and exercises should be a daily necessity for you. This will prevent hand pain and keep them from getting numb.
  3. Make Use of Ergonomic Devices
    Rather than sticking to stiff, plastic appliances and devices, switch to comforting ergonomic appliances.
  4. Don’t Use Too Much Force
    Flexing your fingers too much can put unnecessary pressure on them, causing them to freeze up and get numb.
  5. Assume A Neutral Position
    Avoid moving your hands too much, especially if you frequently get hand pain. Instead, keep your hands and fingers as straight as possible, in a neutral position.
  6. Keep Your Hands And Wrists Warm
    Being exposed to an extremely cold environment can be one of the most common reasons behind numbness in fingers. If that’s the case, make sure to warm your hands as much as possible.
  7. Elevate Your Wrists
    To get rid of numbness in your hands and fingers, elevate your wrists, especially if you’re pregnant, have a hand injury, or suffer from fluid retention.

Bottom Line

In order to relieve numbness in your fingers, make sure you’re taking proper care of it. Try not to flex your hand too much and take frequent breaks, so there’s no strain on your wrist or fingers. Whether the numbness is caused by a pinched nerve or carpal tunnel syndrome, it doesn’t matter. For professional consultation, visit Rheumatology Care.

You can find us at 13688 Breton Ridge St, STE H, Houston, TX 77070, near Houston Kidney Specialists Center. In case of further information or queries, dial (832) 532-9779.

Disclaimer - Use At Your Own Risk :- The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as advice for any individual case or situation. Any action you take upon the information on these blogs are strictly at your own risk. We will not be liable for any losses or damages in connection with the use of the information from these blogs.
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