Numbness in your hands and feet can be a symptom of a variety of underlying conditions, ranging from something as simple as sitting in an awkward position for too long to more serious medical issues.

In this article, we will explore seven common reasons for numbness in hands and feet, complete with illustrated guides to help you identify potential causes and find relief.

1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve – which runs from your forearm to your palm – becomes compressed or squeezed as it passes through a narrow passageway in your wrist called the carpal tunnel.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers, particularly the thumb, index, and middle fingers. You may also experience weakness in your hand or difficulty gripping objects.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Illustration .

2. Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a nerve disorder that affects the nerves outside of your brain and spinal cord. It can cause numbness, tingling, and weakness in your hands and feet, as well as burning or shooting pain.

Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by a number of factors, including diabetes, chemotherapy, and alcoholism.

Peripheral Neuropathy Illustration .

3. Raynaud’s Disease

Raynaud’s disease is a condition that affects the blood vessels in your fingers and toes, causing them to narrow and restrict blood flow. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, or a cold sensation in your fingers and toes.

The affected areas may also turn white or blue and feel painful or swollen when exposed to cold temperatures or stress.

Raynaud's Disease Illustration .

4. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, but it affects the nerve that runs through the inside of your ankle – called the posterior tibial nerve – rather than your wrist.

Symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome include numbness, tingling, and burning in the feet, as well as a sharp, shooting pain in the ankle or on the sole of the foot. This condition can be caused by injury, overuse, or flat feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Illustration .

5. Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, which can result in a variety of symptoms including numbness and tingling in the hands and feet.

Other symptoms of hypothyroidism may include unexplained weight gain, fatigue, depression, and sensitivity to cold.

Hypothyroidism Illustration .

6. Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition that affects the central nervous system.

Symptoms of MS can vary widely, but they may include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hands and feet, as well as blurred vision, fatigue, and difficulty with coordination and balance.

Multiple Sclerosis Illustration .

7. Pinched Nerve

A pinched nerve occurs when a nerve is compressed or damaged, resulting in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or pain in the affected area. This can occur anywhere in the body, including the hands and feet.

Common causes of pinched nerves include injury, poor posture, and repetitive motions.

Pinched Nerve Illustration .

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience persistent or severe numbness in your hands or feet, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor can help identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options.

In some cases, numbness can indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as a stroke or peripheral artery disease, so it is important to take these symptoms seriously.

Conclusion

Numbness in your hands and feet can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions, ranging from something as simple as sitting in an awkward position to more serious medical issues.

By understanding the potential causes and symptoms of numbness, you can take steps to identify and address any underlying concerns, helping to relieve your symptoms and restore your comfort.