numbness flare ups

Overview

Numbness flare-ups are times when you suddenly feel a loss of feeling, or a tingling 'pins and needles' sensation, in part of your body. These episodes can come and go, lasting from a few seconds to several hours. They happen when nerves that send signals between your brain and the rest of your body are affected.

Yes, it is fairly common. Most people will experience a temporary feeling of numbness somewhere in their body at some point.

Numbness flare-ups can affect people of all ages. They are more common in adults, especially those with diabetes, nerve injuries, or conditions that affect the brain and nervous system.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A feeling of 'pins and needles'
• Loss of sensation or feeling in a specific area
• A burning or prickling tingling
• The affected area feels 'asleep' or heavy
• Difficulty feeling light touch, texture, or temperature

Symptoms in children

• Children may report a funny 'pins and needles' feeling after sitting awkwardly or lying on an arm.
• They may also complain of a limb feeling 'dead' or that it 'won't wake up'.
• If a child has sudden weakness, face drooping, or trouble speaking, treat it as an emergency.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults are more likely to have numbness from poor blood flow, diabetes, or nerve wear and tear.
• They may notice numbness in the hands or feet that comes and goes.
• Older adults with numbness are at higher risk of falls because they may not feel the ground under their feet.

Causes

Main causes

• Pressing on a nerve, such as sitting or lying in one position for too long
• Conditions that affect the brain and nervous system, like migraines, multiple sclerosis, or stroke
• Nerve compression, such as a pinched nerve in the neck, back, wrist, or leg
• Diabetes, which can damage nerves over time
• Low levels of vitamin B12 or other nutrient deficiencies
• Poor blood flow to a part of the body
• Heavy alcohol use or exposure to certain chemicals

Risk factors

• Having diabetes
• Smoking or using tobacco
• High blood pressure
• Sedentary lifestyle or long periods of sitting
• Repetitive motions that put pressure on nerves
• Family history of neurological conditions

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden numbness on one side of your body, weakness, difficulty speaking, vision changes, or a severe headache, call your local emergency number immediately.
• If numbness spreads quickly, follow a head or neck injury, or makes it hard to breathe or swallow, seek urgent same-day care.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If numbness flare-ups keep coming back or get worse over time.
• If the numbness affects your ability to do everyday activities, such as walking, writing, or gripping objects.
• If you also have other symptoms like pain, burning, or muscle twitching.

Diagnosis

A doctor will start by asking about your symptoms, when they happen, and whether you have any other health conditions. They will also do a physical examination to check your strength, reflexes, and ability to feel touch in different parts of your body.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies, diabetes, or signs of inflammation
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to look for issues in the brain or spinal cord
• Computed tomography (CT) scan to look for bleeding, damage, or other problems in the brain
• Nerve conduction studies to see how well electrical signals travel through your nerves
• Electromyography (EMG) to check the electrical activity of your muscles

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist, who focuses on brain and nerve conditions. The tests are usually painless, though some, like EMG, may cause mild discomfort. The process can take some time, but it will help find the cause so you can get the right treatment.

Treatment

Treatment for numbness flare-ups depends on what is causing them. Many flare-ups are harmless and go away on their own, but if they are linked to an underlying condition, treating that condition is the best way to reduce future episodes.

Self-care at home

• Adjust your posture and change positions often
• Take short breaks to walk and stretch, especially if you sit at a desk for long periods
• Avoid wearing tight clothing or bands that press on your arms or legs
• Use a warm compress or gentle massage on the affected area
• Keep track of your symptoms in a diary to share with your doctor

Medical treatments

Medical treatment depends on the underlying cause. For example, if diabetes or a vitamin deficiency is causing nerve problems, your doctor will help you manage that condition. For nerve compression, physical therapy or an injection to reduce inflammation may be suggested. Your doctor may also recommend medicines to help calm nerve-related symptoms. Always ask your healthcare provider about which treatment approach is right for you.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely the first option. It may be considered if a nerve is being pressed on by a slipped disc, a bone spur, or a growth, and other treatments have not helped. Your specialist will explain whether surgery could be helpful in your situation.

Living with this condition

Living with numbness flare-ups can be frustrating, but there are ways to manage. Notice which activities or positions trigger your numbness and adjust them. Be careful when walking on uneven surfaces, and use handrails or supportive footwear if needed.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay physically active with gentle exercise, like walking or swimming
• If you smoke, seek help to quit
• Limit alcohol intake
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques, like deep breathing or meditation

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support nerve health. Make sure to stay hydrated and, if you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar levels within your target range. Regular, moderate exercise helps improve blood flow and keep your nerves and muscles working well.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Numbness can feel strange and anyone might worry about what it means. It is normal to feel anxious, especially if flare-ups happen frequently. Talking to your doctor about your concerns, and seeking support from a counselor or psychologist if you need it, can help you cope.

Prevention

Not all numbness flare-ups can be prevented, especially if they are caused by a long-term medical condition. However, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, and avoiding behaviors that damage nerves, such as smoking or heavy drinking.

Complications

If left untreated

• You may not feel injury or temperature changes in the numb area, leading to burns or cuts without knowing it
• You could lose balance or coordination, increasing the risk of falls
• An underlying problem, such as a pinched nerve or a condition like multiple sclerosis, could get worse if not addressed

Long-term outlook

The outlook is often very positive. Many causes of numbness flare-ups are treatable, and symptoms often improve with the right care. Even for conditions that need long-term management, many people live full and active lives. Working closely with your healthcare provider gives you the best chance of finding relief and staying well.

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