You might feel a loss of sensation, tingling, or a “pins and needles” feeling in your fingers. This is finger numbness. Many things can cause this numbness, from minor to serious. This numbness bothers many. Understanding your finger numbness is important for proper management. One very common cause of finger numbness is carpal tunnel syndrome, as medical experts confirm. This often leads to numbness in the thumb, index, and middle digits, with tingling, burning, or pain.
This numbness happens when the median nerve in your wrist is pinched. This blog will help you understand the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for your numbness. You will also learn when to seek medical help for numbness in fingers.
Key Takeaways
Finger numbness means you lose feeling or feel “pins and needles.” Many things can cause it, from small issues to serious health problems.
Common causes include nerves getting squeezed, like in carpal tunnel syndrome. Other causes are diabetes, vitamin problems, and poor blood flow.
See a doctor if your numbness is sudden, gets worse, or comes with other serious signs like weakness or trouble speaking.
Doctors find the cause with exams, nerve tests, blood tests, and scans. Treatment depends on the cause and can include medicine, therapy, or lifestyle changes.
You can help prevent numbness. Use good posture, eat healthy, and manage any health conditions you have.
What is Finger Numbness
Defining Finger Numbness
You might experience a strange feeling in your fingers. This is finger numbness. It means you have a loss of feeling. Sometimes, you feel tingling. You might also feel a “pins and needles” sensation. Doctors call this paresthesia. It is an abnormal sensation.
This feeling can happen when a limb “falls asleep.” This often occurs after you keep a limb still for a long time. It can also happen if a nerve gets irritated. For example, you might hit your ulnar nerve. Another term for decreased sensation is hypoesthesia. Finger numbness is a common symptom of hypoesthesia. Many conditions cause this.
These include diabetic neuropathy and carpal tunnel syndrome. Raynaud’s phenomenon also causes it. In carpal tunnel syndrome, the median nerve gets squeezed. This nerve gives feeling to your fingers and thumb. This compression leads to numbness and pain. Raynaud’s phenomenon restricts blood flow. This can also make your fingers lose feeling.
Associated Sensations
When you have finger numbness, you might feel other sensations too. These are common symptoms. You could feel a burning sensation. Some people describe a prickling feeling. You might also notice weakness in your hands or fingers. Sometimes, your grip feels weaker.
You might find it hard to pick up small objects. These symptoms of numbness can affect just one finger. They can also affect several fingers or even your whole hand. The specific symptoms you feel often depend on what causes the finger numbness.
For example, if you have numbness in hands due to poor circulation, your fingers might also feel cold. You might also notice a change in skin color. You should pay attention to all these symptoms. They help doctors understand your condition.
Common Causes of Finger Numbness
You might wonder what causes your finger numbness. Many different things can lead to this feeling. Some causes are very common. Others are less frequent. Understanding these causes helps you know when to seek help.
Nerve Compression Syndromes
Nerve compression happens when something presses on a nerve. This pressure can stop the nerve from working right. When a nerve cannot send signals well, you feel numbness or tingling. This is a common reason for finger numbness. These conditions are often called compression neuropathy.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a very common type of compression neuropathy. It happens when the median nerve gets squeezed in your wrist. This nerve runs through a narrow passage called the carpal tunnel. When this nerve is compressed, you often feel numbness in fingers, especially your thumb, index, and middle fingers. You might also feel tingling, burning, or pain.
A large study looked at many people from different countries. It found that about 14 out of every 100 people might have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The number of people with this condition can vary a lot.
This condition affects many adults.
Characteristic | Prevalence of CTS (2010) |
|---|---|
Employed adults aged 18–64 years | 3.1% |
Women (compared to men) | More likely to be affected |
Age group | Prevalence increased with age |
Women are more likely to get it than men. Older people also get it more often. |
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome is another type of compression neuropathy. It affects the ulnar nerve. This nerve runs along the inside of your elbow. You might know this spot as your “funny bone.” When you bend your elbow, the nerve stretches. If it gets squeezed or stretched too much, you can feel numbness.
Common symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome include:
You find it hard to move your fingers when they feel numb or tingly.
You feel numbness in your hand and fingers sometimes.
You feel pain on the inside of your elbow.
You feel tingling in your hand and fingers sometimes.
These symptoms are most common when your elbow is bent. This happens when you drive, hold a phone, or sleep. Doctors diagnose cubital tunnel syndrome in several ways. They ask about your symptoms and how long you have had them. They might do blood tests to check for other health problems. An electromyogram (EMG) checks how your nerves and muscles work. X-rays can show bone spurs or arthritis that might press on the nerve.
Radial Nerve Compression
The radial nerve runs down your arm. It helps you move your wrist and fingers. When something presses on this nerve, you can get radial nerve compression. This can cause numbness. Many things can cause this compression neuropathy.
You might overuse your arm in one event or do repetitive activities.
You might do activities that involve forearm rotation.
You might do activities that require a tight grip.
Other causes include:
Repetitive Motions: Jobs or hobbies with repeated hand, wrist, or arm movements can cause swelling and pressure.
Injury: A direct injury like a broken bone, dislocation, or deep bruise can cause swelling and nerve pressure.
Anatomical Factors: Some people have naturally narrower nerve passages.
Underlying Health Conditions: Diseases like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis can affect nerve health.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and extra fluid can increase pressure on nerves.
Obesity: Extra weight can put more pressure on nerves.
Other causes of numbness from radial nerve compression include:
Bone tumors.
Trauma to the nerve itself.
Repetitive or overuse injuries.
Inflammation of nearby tissue.
Health conditions like thyroid problems and diabetes.
Sometimes, external things cause this severe compression neuropathy.
Tight objects like watchbands or crutches can press on the nerve.
Awkward positions, like sleeping with pressure on your upper arm, can also cause it.
Abnormal structures, such as tumors, can press on the nerve.
Repetitive motions like hammering or playing sports like tennis or golf can lead to it.
Systemic conditions like diabetes, liver problems, kidney problems, and vitamin deficiency can also play a role.
Cervical Radiculopathy (Herniated Disc)
Cervical radiculopathy is often called a “pinched nerve” in your neck. It happens when a nerve root in your neck gets squeezed or irritated. This irritation can cause numbness and tingling that goes into your fingers and hands. You might feel “pins and needles” in your fingertips.
Certain movements or positions can make this feeling worse. They can press on the affected nerve even more.
The specific fingers affected depend on which nerve root has the problem.
Nerve Root Affected | Fingers/Area Affected by Numbness/Tingling |
|---|---|
C5 Radiculopathy | Thumb, shoulder, or upper arm |
C6 Radiculopathy | Index finger, arm |
C7 Radiculopathy | Middle finger, arm |
C8 Radiculopathy | Little finger, arm |
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition where nerves outside your brain and spinal cord get damaged. These nerves send messages to and from your brain. When they do not work right, you can feel numbness, tingling, or pain. This is a common cause of numbness.
Damage to sensory nerves, a type of peripheral neuropathy, can cause finger numbness. It also causes tingling and pain. Many different types of peripheral neuropathy exist.
Type of Peripheral Neuropathy |
|---|
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease |
Friedreich ataxia |
Giant axonal neuropathy (GAN) |
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) |
Guillain-Barré syndrome |
Diabetic neuropathy |
Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) |
Meralgia paresthetica |
Multifocal motor neuropathy |
Diabetes-Related Neuropathy
Diabetes is a common cause of neuropathy. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves over time. This damage often starts in the longest nerves. These nerves go to your feet and hands. You might first notice numbness or tingling in your feet.
Later, it can affect your fingers. This type of neuropathy is called diabetic neuropathy. It is a serious cause of numbness.
Other Neuropathic Conditions
Many other conditions can cause neuropathy. These conditions can also lead to finger numbness. Some examples include autoimmune diseases, infections, and kidney disease. Toxins or certain medicines can also damage nerves. These are all potential causes of numbness. You should talk to your doctor if you have ongoing numbness. They can help find the exact causes.
Other Potential Causes of Finger Numbness
Nutritional Deficiencies
Your body needs proper nutrients. Deficiencies can lead to finger numbness. For example, a lack of vitamins B1, B9 (folate), or E can cause tingling in your hands and feet. Magnesium deficiency can impair circulation, making your extremities cold. A lack of omega-3 fatty acids or iron can also affect blood flow, contributing to these causes of numbness.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
A specific lack of vitamin B12 often causes numbness. This vitamin helps protect your nerves. Without enough B12, the protective covering of your nerves can get damaged. This leads to pain, numbness, and a “pins and needles” feeling.
Systemic Diseases
Many body-wide conditions can affect your nerves. These are systemic diseases.
Thyroid Disorders
Your thyroid gland can affect your nerves. Both an overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism) thyroid can lead to peripheral neuropathy. This causes numbness and tingling in your extremities, including your hands. Swollen tissues from hormonal imbalances might press on nerves.
Autoimmune Conditions (e.g., Fibromyalgia)
Autoimmune diseases can also cause finger numbness.
Sjögren’s syndrome can cause severe nerve issues.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) can make your fingers numb, especially in the cold.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, causing numbness and aching.
Hashimoto’s disease (a type of hypothyroidism) can cause numbness and tingling if untreated.
Circulatory Issues
Problems with your blood flow can cause a loss of sensation. Your hands need good circulation.
Raynaud’s Phenomenon
You might experience Raynaud’s Phenomenon. This condition makes your blood vessels narrow in cold or stress. Your fingers can turn white, then blue, then red. This causes coldness, numbness, and pain. Doctors use specific criteria to diagnose it.
Criteria Type | Description |
|---|---|
Wigley | Screening Questions: |
Blood Flow Problems
Poor blood flow means your hands do not get enough oxygen. This can lead to tingling and finger numbness.
Structural Issues
Physical problems in your body’s structure can press on nerves. These are other causes of numbness.
Ganglion Cysts
You might have a ganglion cyst. These fluid-filled lumps can press on a nerve. This pressure can cause finger numbness, tingling, pain, and muscle weakness. A cyst on your wrist can affect your thumb, index, and middle fingers.
Arthritic Spurs
Bone spurs, often from arthritis, can grow on your spine or joints. These spurs can pinch nerves. This nerve compression leads to tingling, a loss of sensation, or a “pins and needles” feeling. Arthritis is one of the causes of nerve compression syndromes.
Injuries and Trauma
Direct harm to your body can damage nerves. This is a common cause of numbness in fingers.
Direct Nerve Damage
You can damage nerves through direct pressure, stretching, or overuse of a joint. A direct hit to a nerve or a fall can also cause this. These injuries can lead to finger numbness.
Repetitive Strain Injuries
Doing the same motion repeatedly can strain your nerves. This can lead to inflammation and pressure. This pressure can cause a loss of sensation.
Medications and Toxins
Some substances you take or are exposed to can harm your nerves. These are other causes of a loss of sensation.
Side Effects of Drugs
Certain medicines can cause neuropathy, leading to a loss of sensation.
Chemotherapy drugs like Cisplatin.
Antibiotics like Metronidazole.
Heart or blood pressure medicines like Amiodarone.
Excess vitamin B6 can also cause nerve damage.
Environmental Factors
Your surroundings can affect your hands.
Cold Temperatures
Cold weather can make your hands feel numb. Your body narrows blood vessels in your fingers to keep your core warm. This reduces blood flow. In conditions like Raynaud’s, this narrowing is more severe. Your finger skin temperature reaching 7°C can cause numbness.
Infections
Some infections can damage your nerves. These are other causes of numbness.
Shingles
HIV
Lyme disease
Chagas disease can also cause sensory nerve damage.
Numbness in Fingertips
You might feel a specific type of numbness that affects only your fingertips. This sensation can be quite bothersome. It often feels like tingling, a loss of sensation, or a “pins and needles” feeling right at the very ends of your fingers. Understanding why this happens can help you seek the right care.
Specific Causes of Numbness in Fingertips
Several conditions can lead to numbness in fingertips. These are often related to issues affecting the small nerves or blood vessels in that area. One of the common causes of fingertip numbness is digital nerve compression. This happens when a small nerve going to a single fingertip gets squeezed. Another common causes of fingertip numbness includes minor injuries. You might have bumped your fingertip or experienced repetitive pressure. This can temporarily disrupt nerve signals.
Localized Nerve or Circulation Issues
When you experience numbness primarily in your fingertips, it often points to localized problems. These issues affect only that specific part of your hand. For example, a small nerve branch might be irritated or compressed. This can happen from holding tools tightly or from certain hobbies.
Poor circulation to the fingertips is another factor. Conditions like Raynaud’s phenomenon, which you learned about earlier, can severely restrict blood flow to your fingertips. This causes them to feel cold and numb. This is a common causes of fingertip numbness that can be quite distinct. This type of finger numbness needs attention to prevent further issues.
Diagnosing Finger Numbness
When to Seek Medical Attention
You need to know when to seek medical attention for finger numbness. Sometimes, numbness can signal a serious problem. Seek immediate medical help if your hand numbness comes with sudden weakness or paralysis. Also, watch for confusion or trouble speaking.
A severe headache or vision changes are red flag symptoms. Loss of consciousness also requires urgent care. You should also get help if numbness affects other body parts. Paralysis, dizziness, or slurred speech are serious symptoms. Loss of bowel or bladder control or a rash with numbness also needs quick medical attention. Recognizing the symptoms that are severe helps you act fast.
Initial Medical Evaluation
When you visit a doctor for numbness, they will start with an initial medical evaluation. You will discuss your symptoms. The doctor will ask about your medical history. They will want to know when your numbness started. You will describe what makes it better or worse. This first step helps your doctor understand your situation.
Physical and Neurological Exams
Your doctor will perform a physical exam. They will also do a neurological exam. This exam checks how your nerves work. It includes a sensory exam. This tests your ability to feel pain, temperature, and other sensations. You might close your eyes while the doctor moves your toes.
They might touch your skin with warm or cold objects. They may lightly stroke your skin with a cotton ball. They might also use a pin or a vibrating tuning fork. The doctor also checks your movement, coordination, and balance. These tests show how your brain talks to your muscles. They might ask you to move your arms and legs.
You might perform fine motor skills like writing. Reflex tests also show nerve communication. The doctor taps tendons with a rubber hammer. This helps pinpoint the cause of your numbness in your fingers.
Diagnostic Tests
After the exams, your doctor might order diagnostic tests. These tests help confirm a diagnosis. They can also rule out other conditions.
Nerve Conduction Studies and EMG
Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and Electromyography (EMG) are common tests. They measure nerve and muscle function. These tests are very good for diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome. They show high accuracy. For example, specialized techniques can have about 85% sensitivity. They also show around 97% specificity for carpal tunnel syndrome. This means they are very reliable.
Blood Tests
Your doctor might order blood tests. These tests look for systemic causes of numbness. A Complete Blood Count (CBC) can show vitamin B12 deficiency. This can cause neuropathy. A Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) checks for high blood glucose.
This suggests diabetes, a major cause of neuropathy. It also checks kidney function. Poor kidney function can cause numbness. Thyroid Function Tests measure thyroid hormones.
Both high and low levels link to peripheral neuropathy. Tests for vitamin levels, like B12, are important. Tests for metals and minerals can also find issues. Elevated lead or low copper can cause neuropathy. Tests for inflammation and autoimmunity, like ESR or ANA, can suggest conditions like lupus.
Imaging Scans (X-ray, MRI)
Imaging scans help doctors see inside your body. An X-ray can show bone problems. An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) gives detailed pictures of soft tissues. These scans can find things like herniated discs or tumors. These issues can press on nerves and cause numbness.
Lifestyle Adjustments and Home Care
You can make many changes at home to help with your numbness. These adjustments can reduce symptoms and prevent them from getting worse.
Ergonomic Modifications
Creating an ergonomic workspace is crucial. It helps prevent work-related finger numbness. Ensure your chair, desk, and computer monitor are at the correct height. Adjust your chair so your feet are flat on the floor. Your knees should be level with your hips. Your desk should allow your forearms to be parallel to the ground when typing. Position your monitor so the top is at or slightly below eye level. This helps you maintain a neutral head and neck position.
You can use several tools and practices.
Wrist Rests: Gel- or foam-based rests cushion your wrist. They keep your wrist in a position that does not compress the median nerve. Use them with keyboards and mice.
Carpal Tunnel Wrist Brace: This keeps your wrist straight during computer usage. It significantly reduces symptoms for more advanced cases.
Chair Cushion: This raises you to the correct height. It helps maintain an ergonomically correct 90-degree arm angle during computer usage. This prevents unnatural wrist breaks.
Ergonomic Keyboard: Unique wave designs promote a more natural typing experience. They help mitigate carpal tunnel symptoms.
Ergonomic Pen: This pen features a super soft non-slip grip and a thicker design. It minimizes carpal tunnel symptoms. It often has easy-flow ink to reduce pressure during writing.
Other ergonomic tips include:
Minimize repetitive hand movements.
Avoid tasks that strain your hands and wrists.
Keep your wrists in a neutral position. You might use a brace.
Avoid holding heavy objects or those that strain your wrist.
Wear a wrist splint while sleeping.
Ice your wrist in 15-minute intervals.
Take anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain and reduce swelling.
Rest your wrists and hands periodically during the workday.
You can also adjust your setup.
Use a box under your feet if they do not touch the floor.
Try using a box to elevate your monitor. This avoids neck adjustment while typing.
Use a towel at your lower back. This provides support for upright posture.
Consider using a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse if you need to elevate your laptop screen.
Use a towel under your forearm to “float” your elbow and wrist.
Try setting timers to remind you to move at least every hour.
Maintaining good posture and proper hand positioning is vital. Keep your wrists straight. Avoid excessive upward or downward bending when typing or using a mouse. This minimizes pressure on the median nerve. Sit with a straight back and relaxed shoulders. This prevents tension in your upper body.
Exercises and Stretches
Regular exercises and stretches can help manage your numbness. You can do these at home.
Wrist Rotations: Move your hands up, down, left, and right. Repeat up to four times.
Finger Stretch: Stretch your fingers wide, then relax. Repeat up to four times.
Thumb Stretch: Push your thumb backward with your opposite hand until you feel a gentle stretch. Repeat up to four times.
Prayer Stretch: Put your hands together under your chin. Lower them to your waist while keeping palms together. Continue until you feel a moderate stretch. Hold for up to 30 seconds. Repeat two to four times.
Wrist Flexor Stretch: Hold your hand out palm face-up. Drop your hand back towards the floor. Use your other hand to deepen the stretch. Hold for up to 30 seconds. Repeat on each hand two to four times.
Wrist Extensor Stretch: Hold your hand out palm facedown. Drop your hand forward towards the floor. Use your other hand to intensify the stretch. Hold for up to 30 seconds. Repeat on each hand two to four times.
Tendon Glides: Type One: Straighten all fingers. Then curl fingers, bending from one knuckle at a time to make a full fist. Hold each pose for 3 seconds. Do this 5-10 times, a few times daily.
Tendon Glides: Type Two: Straighten all fingers. Bend at the first knuckles to make an “L” shape. Then continue bending fingers to the palm. Hold each position for 3 seconds.
Shake It Out: Shake your hands to relieve pain or numbness. This is especially useful at night.
Fist to Stop Sign: Make a fist. Then open your fingers to point towards the ceiling. Repeat five to 10 times.
Thumb Touches: Touch the tip of each finger to the tip of your thumb. Make an O-shape. Repeat a few times.
Basic Wrist Stretches: Sit at a table. Rest your elbow and arm. Let your wrist hang over the side (palm up). Bend your hand toward the ceiling (hold 5s). Return to neutral. Bend your hand toward the floor (hold 5s). Return to neutral. Repeat 10 times, up to three times a day.
Wrist Resistance: Rest your forearm and wrist on a table (hand off edge, palm down). Lay your other hand across your knuckles. Lift your bottom hand while resisting with your top hand. Repeat a few times a day.
Wrist Curls: Use a 1-pound weight or can of beans. With your forearm parallel to the floor, allow your hand to drop down. Then lift it. Return to neutral. Repeat 10 times, up to three times a day.
Hand Grip Exercises: Squeeze balled-up socks or a soft rubber ball. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times, up to three times a day.
Dietary Considerations
Your diet plays a role in nerve health. You can manage or prevent finger numbness related to nutritional deficiencies.
Vitamin B12: This vitamin is essential for myelin formation. You find it in fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products.
Vitamin B6: This is crucial for nerve fiber health. You find it in bananas, poultry, fish, whole grains, and nuts. Avoid taking too many supplements.
Vitamin E: This antioxidant protects your nerves. You find it in almonds, spinach, avocados, and sunflower seeds.
Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is crucial for overall nerve health.
Other nutrients also help.
Magnesium and Calcium: Both too little and too much can increase neuropathy risk. Rich sources of calcium include dairy foods, almonds, and chia seeds. Always consult a doctor before taking supplements.
Glutamine: This amino acid may improve chemotherapy-related neuropathy. You find it in wheat, barley, peanuts, corn, soybeans, egg whites, and milk.
N-acetylcysteine (NAC): This may protect your neurological system from inflammation and damage. You find it in lentils, beans, and bananas.
This comprehensive approach to treatment for numbness can help you find relief.
Preventing Finger Numbness
You can take steps to avoid finger numbness. These actions help keep your nerves healthy. They also improve your overall well-being.
Ergonomic Practices
You can set up your workspace correctly. This prevents strain on your hands and wrists. Adjust your chair height. Your feet should rest flat on the floor. Your knees should be at hip level.
Position your keyboard and mouse close to your body. Keep your wrists straight when you type. Do not bend them up or down. Use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse if you need them. Take short breaks often. Stretch your hands and fingers during these breaks. This reduces repetitive strain.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Your daily habits affect your nerve health. Eat a balanced diet. Include foods rich in B vitamins. These vitamins support nerve function. Exercise regularly. This improves blood circulation throughout your body.
Good circulation helps prevent numbness. Avoid smoking. Smoking can harm your blood vessels. This reduces blood flow to your hands. Maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight can put pressure on nerves.
Managing Underlying Conditions
You must manage any existing health problems. Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases can cause nerve damage. Work with your doctor to control these conditions.
Follow your treatment plan. This helps prevent nerve complications. It reduces your risk of experiencing finger numbness. Regular check-ups are important. They help catch problems early.
You now understand that numbness in fingers is a common symptom. Many diverse causes lead to it, ranging from minor issues to more serious conditions. Accurate diagnosis is very important for effective treatment of your finger numbness.
You have learned about the various causes of numbness, how doctors diagnose these causes of numbness, and the available treatment approaches. Consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or worsening finger numbness, especially with accompanying red flag symptoms. Effective treatments and management strategies are available to help you.
