There “paresthesia” is the scientific name for the tingling and electrical pain that sometimes animates our extremities (left hand as well as right hand). This can manifest as tingling (in the fingers), numbness (in the hand or fingers) , ants or electric shocks (in fingers or hands), even a burning sensation.”This touch and sensation disorder indicates a dysfunction in the central nervous system or compression of a nerve“, reveals Dr. Florence Aïm, orthopedic surgeon and hand specialist.
Most often, this is a transient, harmless phenomenon: the tingling subsides in a few minutes and the sensation of normal touch returns. But sometimes, trouble sets in over time. “In this case, it is a sign of nerve pain, continues the expert. If allowed to continue, it can get worse: the tingling becomes more recurrent or intense, paralyzes the hand or can spread to the whole arm. It is therefore better to speak quickly to your attending physician.“Very diverse pathologies – trivial as well as more important – can be at the origin of these tingling.
When to consult?
If your tingling is repeated more and more often, becomes more painful or extends to the upper limb, talk to your doctor as soon as possible. He will assess the situation and redirect you to a neurologist if necessary. An electromyogram – reference examination for this symptom – will certainly be carried out, in order to confirm the diagnosis.
“Do not delay, however, if your symptoms appear suddenly in one arm and are accompanied by other signs: speech disorders, balance, weakness on one side of the body or facial paralysis.“, insists Dr. Florence Aïm. It may be a transient ischemic attack or a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) which requires emergency treatment: go directly to the hospital or dial 15.
How to relieve tingling?
- Apply ice: wrap a few ice cubes or a thermal pad (previously stored in the freezer) in a towel and place on the affected area for 10 minutes. Then let your hand rest;
- Hand Massage: Stimulate your muscles and nerves to activate blood circulation and release numbness. Massage the painful area regularly, in a circular manner, from the thumb through the wrist to the forearm, with essential oils (1 drop of EO of wintergreen or tea tree, diluted in a small amount of vegetable oil );
- Stretch and move your hand: shake your hand vigorously as soon as the ants start to appear and make circular movements with your fingers. If the numbness does not subside, do some stretching. For example, clench your fist and straighten your fingers one at a time until they are straight. Repeat this exercise several times a day if necessary;
- Review your work gestures: avoid keeping your hand frozen in the same position (especially tense on the computer mouse) and review your work movements, to limit repetitive movements (especially elbow flexion). Also use a headset for your phone calls;
- Do not put too much strain on the hand: if you suffer from carpal tunnel, take care of your limb to prevent the symptoms from getting worse. Identify the gestures responsible for the pain and change your habits to allow the hand to rest.
