PARESTHESIA
If you’ve experienced stabbing pain, numbness and tingling in the upper or lower extremity, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.
What is Paresthesia?
Physicians define Paresthesia as the numb, burning, or “pins-and-needles” sensation that can occur in the limbs for a variety of reasons. Most people experiencing paresthesia say that the limb in question has “fallen asleep.”
Temporary paresthesia often occurs from placing too much pressure on a nerve combined with poor blood circulation. Sitting in an uncomfortable position, in an uncomfortable chair, or sleeping on top of your arm can all result in temporary paresthesia. However, if the paresthesia arises on its own and does not go away after a short time (chronic paresthesia) it may warn of nerve damage such as cauda equina syndrome.
Whether temporary or chronic symptoms of paresthesia include:
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Tingling
- Burning sensation
- Cold sensation
Chronic paresthesia due to nerve damage can also induce stabbing pains. Intense paresthesia in the upper extremities can lead to difficulties grasping or holding objects due to numb hands and numb fingers, and paresthesia in the lower extremities can cause difficulty walking without falling or stumbling.