Numbness and tingling are sensations that can occur just about anywhere, but are more often felt in your arms, hands, and fingers, or your legs or feet.
What are some common causes of numbness and tingling?
There are many possible causes:
- Staying seated or remaining in a standing position for a long period of time
- An injury to or irritation of a nerve. For example, stenosis caused by a herniated disc in your neck (maybe as a result of injury) could numbness anywhere along your arm or hand. Sometimes a lower back injury can numbness or tingling down your backside or the back of your leg.
- Pressure on nearby nerves from enlarged blood vessels, infections, scar tissue, or tumors can also create sensations of numbness and tingling.
- A shingles (herpes zoster) infection/flare-up
- Poor blood supply to an particular area can cause numbness or tingling. For example, poor circulation due to peripheral artery disease could cause numbness or tingling in the legs (along with other symptoms).
- Some other medical conditions, including:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Diabetes
- Migraines
- Multiple sclerosis
- Seizures
- Stroke
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA), or “mini-stroke”
- An underactive thyroid
- Abnormal calcium, potassium, or sodium levels
- A vitamin deficiency
- Medications (side effects of numbness & tingling occur with some types of meds)
- Nerve damage due to lead, alcohol, or tobacco toxicity
Chiropractic Care for Numbness & Tingling
Dr. Davis will begin to investigate the cause of your numbness and tingling by obtaining a comprehensive medical history and by performing a physical examination, which may include orthopedic and neurological tests. If needed, other tests may be ordered as well, such as: MRI, CT scan, blood tests, ultrasound, or others as appropriate.
Most cases of numbness and tingling can be treated conservatively with chiropractic care. Some instances, however may require medications, injections or surgery. Dr. Davis would then refer you to an appropriate specialist work closely with him/her to ensure you receive the best possible care for your condition.
If you’re experiencing unexplained numbness or tingling, don’t delay. Call us today for an evaluation!