Numbness and tingling
Numbness and tingling (paresthesia) are common symptoms that can occur in the hands, feet, face or elsewhere in the body. Short-term numbness (for example, when an arm falls asleep) is normal, but recurrent or continuous symptoms require investigation.
The most common causes are nerve compression (nerve entrapment, for example carpal tunnel syndrome or a herniated disc), vitamin B12 deficiency, diabetes, hypothyroidism or neurological diseases.
Treatment depends on the cause: physiotherapy, surgical treatment of nerve entrapment, medication or nutritional corrections. Diagnosis is made with a clinical examination, nerve conduction studies and blood tests.
Practitioners – Numbness and tingling
Aapo Nummi
Physiotherapy
Aapo Talonpoika
Orthopaedics and traumatology
Aarne Kivioja
Orthopaedics and traumatology
Aaron Matilainen
Physiotherapy, Sports physiotherapy
Ahti Nordberg
Orthopaedics and traumatology
Aimo Karinen
Neurology
Aino Haarala
Physiotherapy
Aino Lepistö
Physiotherapy
Aino Tynkkynen
OMT physiotherapy
Aira Korhonen
Physiotherapy
Frequently asked questions
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve in the hand is compressed in the wrist canal. Symptoms include numbness and tingling in the palm and fingers, especially at night, and pain in the wrist. Treatment includes a support splint, a cortisone injection or surgery.
Can a back problem cause numbness in the legs?
Yes. A herniated disc or spinal canal stenosis can compress a nerve root, causing radiating pain, numbness or tingling in the leg (sciatica). Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms: physiotherapy, medication or surgical treatment.
How is diabetes related to numbness?
If long-lasting or poorly controlled, diabetes can damage peripheral nerves (diabetic neuropathy). The typical symptom is numbness, tingling or pain in the feet and lower legs. Good blood sugar control slows the progression of neuropathy.