Experiencing numbness or tingling in your hands can range from a minor inconvenience to a signal of a more serious underlying health issue. This sensation, often described as “pins and needles,” can stem from various causes. Let’s explore some potential reasons for this condition.

Using your hands for repetitive tasks, such as typing or using tools, can lead to nerve compression, contributing to tingling sensations. Carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, is a common example of this.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve health. A deficiency can result in numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, along with other symptoms like muscle weakness and fatigue. This deficiency is more common in individuals with dietary restrictions, such as vegetarians or those with absorption issues like Crohn’s disease.

Neck or Spinal Issues

Conditions like herniated discs or neck spondylosis (age-related wear and tear of the spine) can put pressure on spinal nerves, causing tingling sensations that radiate to the arms and hands. This may be accompanied by pain or stiffness in the neck.