HomeAnswersInternal Medicinepricking sensationI have pin and needle sensation in my arms. Why?

What are the possible causes of pin and needle sensation in both the arms?

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Published At February 15, 2024
Reviewed AtFebruary 15, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am 31 years old female. It started four weeks ago. I woke up with a pin and needle sensation in both of my arms, from the middle of my arm to the tip of my fingers. I blamed it on work or my sleeping position, but it kept happening every morning, regardless of my sleeping position or after a short afternoon nap. The same feeling is when a body part goes numb and gets this specific pain after the numbness. In some mornings, it is moderate, while sometimes, I wake up in the middle of the night with severe pain. After I get up and move my arm, the pain disappears in a few minutes. This week, it progressed that even when I am just sitting, and my arm is resting, doing embroidery, or having a shower, I start feeling numbness in my hand. I do not have any other symptoms. I am obese but generally in good health. I lost weight this year by eating fresh foods, drinking water, walking daily, swimming twice a week, and taking multivitamins, Collagen, and Magnesium. I am planning to conceive, therefore taking Folic acid and Coenzyme Q10. I had gallbladder surgery 15 years ago. It does not cause problems if I eat low-fat food. I do not have any digestive issues. Please help.

Thanks.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

The symptoms you described, such as pin and needle sensations, numbness, and pain in your arms and hands, could be related to a nerve-related issue. Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, or cervical radiculopathy can cause similar symptoms. You should visit a doctor to perform physical examinations, and the doctor may suggest tests (such as nerve conduction studies or imaging) and ask about your medical history to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. This will enable them to suggest appropriate treatment options or further investigations. The treatment for your symptoms will depend on the underlying cause. If you have a nerve-related issue such as carpal tunnel syndrome, it may be suggested that you rest your hands and wrists more frequently, wear wrist splints at night, and perform specific exercises.

Additionally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Ibuprofen, can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. If the underlying cause is peripheral neuropathy, treatment options may include treating any underlying medical conditions (such as diabetes), medications to manage pain and discomfort, physical therapy to improve muscle strength and balance, or, in some cases, surgery. In the case of cervical radiculopathy, treatments may include physical therapy, chiropractic treatments, or steroid injections to reduce inflammation. Surgery may also be recommended in severe cases.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Vandana Andrews
Dr. Vandana Andrews

General Practitioner

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