She Strengthens

The Mysterious Case of Numb Wrists

Are you experiencing a tingling sensation or numbness in your wrists, hands, or fingers? You’re not alone! This phenomenon can be triggered by various factors, ranging from simple habits to underlying medical conditions. Let’s unravel the mystery behind numb wrists and explore the possible causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Unraveling the Symptoms

Numbness or tingling sensations in your hands or fingers can be attributed to several factors, including:

• Diabetes
• Golfer’s elbow
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
• Side effects from certain blood pressure medications

The Heart Attack Connection

Did you know that pain in one or both arms can be a symptom of a heart attack? According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, this is a common indicator, especially in the left arm. If you’re experiencing additional symptoms like nausea, dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath, call 9-1-1 or your local emergency services immediately.

Sleeping on Your Hands

Waking up with numb hands or fingers might be due to sleeping in an awkward position, putting pressure on your hands. However, it could also be related to:

• Alcohol misuse
• Diabetes mellitus
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Thoracic outlet syndrome
• Cervical (neck) spondylosis
• Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage)

Fingers Feeling Funky?

If your fingers are feeling numb or tingly, it might be due to:

• Fibromyalgia
• A pinched nerve
• Multiple sclerosis
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Chemotherapy side effects
• Peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes or high blood pressure

The Culprits Behind Numb Wrists

A numb wrist can be triggered by various conditions, including:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis, gout, osteoarthritis)
• Wrist tendonitis (tenosynovitis)

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: The Sneaky Culprit

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve in your wrist becomes compressed, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling in your fingers, palms, or wrists. Overuse, diabetes, wrist fractures, thyroid conditions, high blood pressure, and rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to this condition.

Preventing and Treating Carpal Tunnel

To reduce your risk of carpal tunnel syndrome:

• Use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse
• Take frequent breaks from typing or using your phone
• Wear fingerless gloves to keep your hands and wrists warm
• Perform strengthening exercises and stretches for your hands and wrists regularly

If you’re already experiencing symptoms, anti-inflammatory medications and corticosteroids can provide relief. Your doctor might also recommend rest and rehabilitation for your wrist.

Arthritis: The Many Faces

Arthritis is a complex condition with over 100 types, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), gout, and osteoarthritis. Each type has its unique characteristics and treatment approaches.

Wrist Tendonitis: The Overuse Epidemic

Wrist tendonitis occurs when one or more tendons in your wrist become inflamed, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Overuse, arthritis, diabetes, infection, and thyroid dysfunction can contribute to this condition.

Treatment and Prevention

To treat wrist tendonitis:

• Get gentle soft tissue massages
• Elevate and rest the injured area
• Use a splint or brace to give your tendon time to rest
• Take an OTC medication to reduce pain and swelling
• Limit your activity to reduce your risk of making it worse

Remember, if your symptoms persist or worsen, consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. In the meantime, take proactive steps to reduce your risk of developing numb wrists and fingers.