I have suffered with pins and needles in my hands on and off over the past few years. Several years ago, I was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, but I think since I have lost some weight, it has largely improved.
However, I have noticed that when I go skiing once a year, the problem returns. The hands are used quite a lot with the poles in skiing and I also thought it might be connected to the high altitude, but usually the problem goes when I return home.
This year, however, I am getting pins and needles in my hands and lower arms every night and the only way to get rid of it is to drape my arms over the edge of the bed (I can only do one at a time as I am in a double bed!). Then I get terrible pain in my hands as feeling returns.
I am now finding that I am getting pins and needles and numbness in my hands when I am giving reflexology and massage - not to be recommended and I wondered whether anyone had any ideas on this and whether there was any supplements I could take. I have been using a marjoram and lavender blend which I give my clients for cramp, but am not sure if it should be treated in the same way.
I seem to get the problem if my hands/arms are elevated, even slightly and I don't seem to have the usual strength in my hands.
Any advice would be appreciated - thanks.
Lesley
RE: Pins and Needles
I was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome
Hi Aromababe...
stating the obvious perhaps...but, I would advise you to go back to your doctors and tell him/her what is going on!
luv & peace
stormdeva x
RE: Pins and Needles
Heaps of yoga and gentle stretching may help. And some rest for your hands if that is possible.
RE: Pins and Needles
Stormdeva, I think it probably is CTS, but last time the doctor just gave me water tablets and the only other options are cortisone injections or surgery and I don't really fancy any of those. Just wondered if there was anything more natural.
Stretching makes sense, Gussie. Will do that when I stretch all my other achy bits!
Lesley
RE: Pins and Needles
It does sound like CTS & there may be various contributing factors. You may know that surgery isn't always a successful approach with this. [&:]
Natural anti-inflammatories such as strong anti-oxidants, cat's claw, etc will help reduce the inflammation, therefore the swelling & subsequent compression of the nerves in the 'carpal tunnel'. This may give good short term relief, but is only treating the symptons.
Night time is often the worst time because when we're not moving much, then the inflammation doesn't drain away as easily, so tends to build up locally. [:@]
Almost without exception, the elbow is as much the problem as the wrist. The main muscles that flex & extend the wrist attach above the elbow. These often get stuck in a cycle of simple being too tight or 'pumped up', especially if you do a hands on job. As a result of this or possibly the cause is usually a stiff radio humeral joint of the elbow. Until this is released & mobility maintained, then it may not resolve completely.
Whilst rubbing the sore bit better may give some temporary relief - it's probably not going to solve the issue. Over the long term if something isn't done the problem can lead to nerve damage usually in the form of loss of sensation in the hands & muscle weakness/atrophy. [:o]
I would certainly see an osteopath for this, but as I usually point out I am biased on that issue. I should also point out that there may well be other areas contributing to the problem, such as the neck & shoulders. 😮
Good luck whatever!
RE: Pins and Needles
I am seeing an osteopath for my back, so will mention it to him next time I go. Only problem is, he'll spend less time working on my back!
Lesley