Numbness And Tingling

What are numbness and tingling?

Numbness and tingling are sensations that can affect nearly any area of the body, but they commonly occur in the hand, feet, fingers, and toes. While these feelings typically resolve on their own, sometimes they don’t. Chronic numbness and tingling are signs of underlying conditions affecting the nerves, muscles, or arteries.

At Neuropathy and Pain Centers of Texas, the pain management experts diagnose and treat the underlying causes of numbness and tingling. 

What are the signs of numbness and tingling?

Numbness and tingling are complex sensations that can be difficult to put into words. While you may not feel pain, you can experience discomfort. Common signs of numbness and tingling include:

• Weakness
• Burning
• Itching
• Pins and needles sensation
• Muscle cramps or spasms

These sensations can also lead to loss of feeling in the affected limbs as if they have “fallen asleep.”

What causes numbness and tingling?

The most common causes of numbness and tingling are temporary. You may experience these uncomfortable sensations when you sit cross-legged for long periods or sleep on your arm. If these symptoms become chronic, an underlying condition may be the culprit. 

Common causes of numbness and tingling include:

• Nerve damage or compression
• Diabetes
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Medication
• Vitamin B-12 deficiency
• Stroke 
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Peripheral artery disease
• Herniated disc
• Spinal stenosis
• Arthritis
• Bone spurs

Repetitive motions can also cause sports injuries that lead to numbness and tingling.

How are numbness and tingling diagnosed?

After a comprehensive physical exam and medical history review, the team orders testing to investigate your symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and X-rays are the most common scans the team typically recommends. They may also order nerve conduction studies and electromyography to evaluate your nerve function.

How are numbness and tingling treated?

After thorough testing, the team can create your personalized treatment plan. Your treatment plan may include:

• Chiropractic care
• Nonsurgical spinal decompression
• Massage therapy
• M6 MLS® (multiwave locked system) robotic laser 
• Nutrition counseling
• Nutritional intravenous (IV) infusions
• Trigger point injections

Don’t wait to seek help if you’re experiencing frequent numbness and tingling. Call Neuropathy and Pain Centers of Texas, or schedule an appointment online today.