Pins & needles in hands
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Understanding Pins and Needles in Hands: Causes and Conditions
Common Causes of Pins and Needles Sensation
The sensation of pins and needles, medically known as paresthesia, is a common experience that can occur in various parts of the body, including the hands. This sensation can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from temporary physical pressure to underlying medical conditions. For instance, paresthesia can occur when a person sits with their arms or legs crossed for an extended period, leading to temporary nerve compression4. Additionally, conditions such as diabetes and carpal tunnel syndrome are known to cause persistent pins and needles sensations4.
Physical Activity and Occupational Hazards
Physical activity and certain occupations can also contribute to the development of pins and needles in the hands. A case study of a 20-year-old joiner revealed that his symptoms were exacerbated by physical activity and worsened after a busy day at work1. Similarly, orthopedic surgeons are at risk of needlestick and sharps injuries (NSIs) during surgeries, which can lead to discomfort and paresthesia in the hands2. These findings highlight the importance of ergonomic practices and protective measures in physically demanding jobs to prevent nerve-related issues.
Anatomical Anomalies and Muscular Issues
Anatomical anomalies and muscular issues can also lead to pins and needles sensations. For example, a 20-year-old manual worker experienced discomfort and paresthesia in the ulnar border of the hand and little finger due to an anomalous accessory palmaris longus muscle3. This condition was aggravated by strenuous activities, indicating that structural abnormalities in the muscles or tendons can impinge on nerves and cause sensory disturbances.
Neurological and Vascular Conditions
Neurological conditions are a significant cause of pins and needles in the hands. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one such condition that can present with paresthesia, although it is often accompanied by other neurological symptoms1. Another condition, thoracic inlet syndrome, predominantly presents with neurological symptoms such as numbness and pins and needles in the arms, often exacerbated by sustained overhead activities7. This syndrome is common among weight lifters, carpenters, and individuals with poor posture.
Nutritional Deficiencies and Systemic Diseases
Nutritional deficiencies, particularly of vitamin B12, can lead to subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord, which manifests as paresthesia in both hands and feet8. This condition is characterized by impaired sensation of fine touch, pin prick, joint position, and vibration, along with exaggerated deep tendon reflexes8. Ensuring adequate nutritional intake is crucial for maintaining nerve health and preventing such systemic diseases.
Conclusion
Pins and needles in the hands can arise from a multitude of causes, including temporary physical pressure, occupational hazards, anatomical anomalies, neurological conditions, and nutritional deficiencies. Understanding the underlying cause is essential for effective management and prevention. Ergonomic practices, protective measures, and adequate nutrition play vital roles in mitigating the risk of developing paresthesia. If symptoms persist, seeking medical evaluation is important to rule out serious underlying conditions.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Young Man with Pins and Needles
20-year-old man was referred to neurology clinic for pins and needles in both hands. Symptoms started 6 months ago. Symptoms were provoked by physical activity and became much worse after busy day; he worked hard as a joiner. He was referred as a suspected diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS). He did not have any other symptoms. On objective examination reflexes were present and not increased; apart from absent ankle jerks bilaterally. Plantars were negative. Muscle strength was normal. There were no sphincter symptoms. He did not have any symptoms on examination but paresthesias in his hands did not seem to respect any particular dermatome. Vibration sense was reduced in legs (ankle level) but light touch and pin prick were normal. Cranial nerves were normal and there was no ataxia.
Case ReportCharacteristics of needlestick and sharps injuries of the hands in the operating room among orthopedic surgeons in Japan
Orthopedic surgeons are at risk of needlestick and sharps injuries, with suture needles being the most common cause and pins/wires being second.
Observational Study
Rigorous JournalAn Anomalous Accessory Palmaris Longus Muscle
An abnormal accessory palmaris longus muscle in the wrist may cause severe hand discomfort and numbness, aggravated by strenuous activities and supportive wrist straps.
Case ReportFormication, tactile hallucinations, delusional parasitosis, and Morgellons: Enough to make your skin crawl.
Morgellons is a parasitic disease that causes itching, burning, prickling, tingling, or "pins and needles" sensations in the body, often in the form of small, circular, scaly lesions.
The Hand Patient: Garpal Tunnel Syndrome
Garpal tunnel syndrome is a common cause of hand pain and numbness, and can be effectively treated with physical therapy and occupational therapy.
Case ReportTHE THORACIC INLET SYNDROME.
The throracic inlet syndrome is a common condition affecting the upper extremities, with symptoms worsening during sustained overhead activity or positions.
Case ReportSubacute Combined Degeneration Of The Cord: Lateral Column Involvement Seen On Mri –An Uncommon Finding
Subacute combined degeneration of the cord with lateral column involvement is a rare finding, but may indicate a spinal cord tumor.
Case ReportCally's carpal complaint.
Cally's carpal complaints are a result of her weight gain and increased activity level, and may be caused by a weakened carpal ligament.
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