PARESTHESIA
If you’re experiencing 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?
Paresthesia involves abnormal sensory perceptions that create tingling, prickling, burning, numbness, crawling, or “pins and needles” sensations on the skin. Altered nerve activity generates these sensations without corresponding external stimulation, causing the nervous system to transmit unusual sensory signals to the brain. The condition can affect a small, localized area or spread across larger regions of the body, most commonly involving the hands, feet, arms, or legs. Symptom intensity can range from mild and intermittent to severe and persistent, depending on the extent of nerve involvement.
Specialists generally classify paresthesia as either temporary or chronic. Temporary episodes often develop suddenly and resolve after normal nerve function returns, whereas chronic paresthesia can persist for months or years and may interfere with daily activities, balance, coordination, or fine motor tasks. Ongoing abnormal nerve signaling can produce discomfort, sensory disturbances, and reduced awareness of touch, temperature, or pain. The condition serves as a neurological symptom rather than a disease itself, often signaling underlying changes or dysfunction within the peripheral or central nervous system.
What Causes Paresthesia?
Several factors can cause paresthesia by disrupting normal nerve function and altering sensory signals. Pressure on nerves, nerve damage, medical conditions, and exposure to harmful substances can all trigger sensations such as tingling, numbness, burning, or “pins and needles.”
Causes may include:
- Pressure on nerves from prolonged sitting, crossing the legs, or maintaining awkward positions
- Nerve injuries caused by trauma, surgery, or repetitive movements
- Diabetes-related nerve damage resulting from prolonged high blood glucose levels
- Vitamin deficiencies, particularly vitamin B12 deficiency, that impair nerve health
- Neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis or stroke that affect sensory pathways
- Infections and autoimmune diseases that damage or inflame nerves
- Excessive alcohol consumption and exposure to toxins that harm nerve tissue
Treatment for Paresthesia
Healthcare professionals treat paresthesia by identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the abnormal sensations. They may recommend lifestyle changes, posture corrections, or ergonomic adjustments when nerve compression contributes to symptoms. Physical therapy can help improve strength, flexibility, and nerve function, while regular exercise can support circulation and overall nerve health. Specialists encourage patients to avoid activities or positions that place excessive pressure on affected nerves.
Medical treatment often focuses on managing conditions that contribute to nerve dysfunction. Medications may be prescribed to control nerve pain, reduce inflammation, or treat neurological disorders, and vitamin deficiencies can be corrected through dietary changes or supplements. In some severe cases, surgery may be required to relieve nerve compression or repair damaged nerves when conservative treatments do not provide adequate symptom relief.
Recovery for Paresthesia
Recovery from paresthesia depends on the cause and the extent of nerve involvement. When pressure on a nerve triggers symptoms, relief often occurs quickly after removing the pressure and restoring normal blood flow and nerve signaling. In cases involving injury, deficiency, or chronic conditions, recovery often progresses slower as nerves heal or underlying problems receive treatment. Specialists support recovery by treating the underlying condition and encouraging nerve healing. Patients may improve sensation through physical therapy, improved nutrition, better blood sugar control, or medication adjustments. Some individuals regain full sensation over time, while others experience steady improvement and successfully manage symptoms long-term, even when nerve damage becomes more persistent or severe.
If you would like to speak to one of our Orthopedic Specialists, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.
