Numbness in the limbs

Numbness in the limbs is a loss of sensation, muscle weakness, and loss of coordination in the limbs due to compression of a nerve or blood vessels over a long period. It occurs due to disturbances in the transmission of nerve signals from the limbs to the brain or vice versa. It can be temporary and caused by posture, compression of nerves or blood vessels, or it can be a sign of serious medical conditions such as neuropathies, herniated discs, circulatory disorders, or neurological diseases.

If numbness in the limbs of the arms or legs does not go away, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

What are the causes of numbness in the limbs?

Numbness in the limbs can be caused by various reasons:

Nerve compression: Incorrect body position during sleep or prolonged sitting, as well as due to the use of too-tight clothing or equipment.
Herniated discs: Bulging or herniated discs can put pressure on nerves, causing numbness, tingling, or pain in the affected areas of the body, such as numbness in the arms or numbness in the legs.
Cervical osteochondrosis: Degenerative changes in the cervical spine can put pressure on nerves or impair circulation, causing numbness, tingling, weakness, or even loss of sensation in the arms, shoulders, or even legs if the disorder affects the lower levels of the cervical spine.
Neuropathies: A group of diseases characterized by damage to the peripheral nerves, such as diabetes mellitus and alcoholic neuropathy.
Neurological diseases: Certain neurological disorders, such as migraine, epilepsy, or Parkinson’s disease.
Circulatory disorders: Reduced blood flow or heart problems can result in insufficient blood supply to the limbs, causing numbness.
Trauma or vascular disorders: Trauma, such as fractures or vascular disorders, can damage nerves or blood vessels, causing numbness.
Carpal tunnel syndrome: A pinched nerve in the wrist causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers.
Stress and anxiety: Psychological factors, such as stress and anxiety, can cause physiological reactions, including numbness in the limbs.

If numbness lasts a long time or is accompanied by other symptoms, see an orthopedic doctor immediately.

What are the symptoms of numbness in the limbs?

Symptoms of numbness in the limbs depend on the cause, including:

Tingling or burning: It is often felt as a tingling or burning sensation that spreads throughout the limb.
Weakness: A feeling of weakness or heaviness in the numb limb that makes it difficult to move or perform daily tasks.
Loss of sensation: Decreased or complete loss of sensation in the affected area.
Feelings of cold or warmth: An unusual temperature in the numb area, such as cold or hot.
Swelling: Swelling in the affected limb.
Skin changes: There may be changes in skin color, texture, or appearance in the area of numbness.
Pain: In some cases, numbness may be accompanied by pain, especially if nerves are compressed or other traumatic conditions occur.
Coordination problems: Numbness may make it difficult to perform precise or complex movements due to loss of sensation.

If symptoms persist or worsen, make an appointment with your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

What diagnostic methods for limb numbness are used at N1 Clinic in Dnipro?

To find the causes and select effective treatment for limb numbness, an orthopedic traumatologist conducts a visual and tactile examination of the patient and also evaluates their motor functions and reflexes. The specialist should also evaluate the patient’s sensitivity and muscle strength.

Additional diagnostic methods that a doctor may prescribe:

Electromyography (EMG) to measure the electrical activity of muscles and the function of peripheral nerves.
Electroneuromyography (ENMG) is a method that combines electromyography with neurography, allowing you to evaluate the function and condition of both muscles and nerves.
X-ray to detect spinal abnormalities such as spondylosis or herniated discs.
Computer tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to obtain detailed images of the spine and soft tissues to detect pathologies such as tumors or herniated discs.
Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow in the arteries and veins of the limbs.
Lab tests to check for infections, inflammation, or other systemic diseases that can cause numbness.

Typically, the doctor will use a combination of different methods depending on the suspected cause of numbness and the individual characteristics of the patient to get a complete picture of the patient’s condition.

What methods of treating numbness in the limbs are used at N1 Clinic?

At N1 Clinic, an orthopedic traumatologist selects a complex of treatments for numbness in the limbs depending on its cause. The following methods are used:

Treatment of the underlying disease: If numbness is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes, arthritis, or a herniated disc, the doctor may prescribe treatment for this disease.
Physical therapy: Exercises and procedures to improve blood circulation, relieve tension, and strengthen muscles, which can reduce numbness.
Drug therapy: Medicines to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, or improve blood circulation.
Lifestyle changes: Including weight loss, improved nutrition, and moderate exercise.
Massage: Massaging helps relax muscles and improve circulation, which can reduce numbness.
Injections: If nerves are compressed or inflamed, your doctor may prescribe injections of steroids or pain medications.

When numbness is caused by nerve compression or other structural problems, surgery may be needed to correct the cause.

What is the prevention of numbness in the limbs?

To reduce the risk of developing numbness in the limbs and maintain the health of the nervous system and spine, you can follow these rules:

Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular moderate exercise, a healthy diet, maintaining a normal weight, and quitting bad habits such as smoking can help improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of developing numbness.
Control blood sugar levels for patients with diabetes. It is important to monitor blood glucose levels and, if necessary, take measures to control them, such as taking medications and following a diet.
Avoid monotonous postures and overloads. When working at a computer or sitting for a long time, it is important to maintain correct posture and take breaks to warm up and stretch.
Attend medical examinations. Regular visits to the doctor will help to identify possible problems with the spine or nerves at an early stage and take measures to prevent or treat them.
Choose the right shoes. Wear comfortable shoes with good foot support to prevent the development of flat feet and other problems that can lead to numbness.
Maintain ergonomics in the workplace. Properly organize your workplace, and use ergonomic furniture and equipment to reduce the load on the spine and prevent the development of numbness.

What are the benefits of treating numbness of the limbs at N1 Clinic in Dnipro?

At N1 Clinic, you will find experienced orthopedic doctors who have been treating problems of the musculoskeletal system for over 20 years. We use international treatment protocols that guarantee a high standard of medical care.

Our doctors will conduct a full diagnosis and create an individual treatment plan for each patient, taking into account their unique needs and characteristics. In addition, we have a vertebrologist on staff who specializes in spinal problems, and is also our medical director, Artem Naumenko. If the treatment requires surgical intervention, Dr. Naumenko will perform the necessary surgery. In addition, our doctors always try to avoid unnecessary surgeries, offering alternative treatments or postponing the procedure to a later date, if possible.

Don’t miss the opportunity to get qualified medical care and effective recommendations from specialists, call and make an appointment for a consultation.