Tingling in fingers can be fairly distressing and at times associated with burning and pain. Often tingling can also be associated with parasthesia i.e. partial loss of sensation and cramps in the hands. Though in severe cases surgical intervention may be required, in most cases the condition can be managed at home.
Causes Of Tingling And Numbness In Fingers
There are a wide range of causes which can result in tingling in the fingers. Tingling primarily occurs due to compression of the nerve that supplies to the fingers. The compression of the median nerve is most commonly observed and associated with tingling in the fingers.
- Carpel tunnel syndrome: The median nerve passes through a tunnel which is made up of ligaments and fascia. Inflammation in the ligaments or the fascia may result in compression of the nerve and result in tingling.
- Excessive strain on the median nerve, either due to trauma or any other cause may also manifest in the form of tingling in the fingers.
- Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and gout may result in the edema, which in turn may cause the nerve root compression.
- Other conditions including diabetes, pregnancy and acromegaly may also result in nerve compression and result in tingling numbness.
- Repetitive and forceful movements of the wrist may result in inflammation and irritation of the tunnel and result in tingling numbness.
Symptom Of Tingling Fingers And Toes
Often the cause associated to tingling in the fingers and the toes is nerve compression. However the symptoms may vary depending upon the severity of the condition. Often some of the accompanying symptoms associated with tingling in the fingers and toes include,
- Burning pain along with tingling is one of the most common symptoms. This is attributed to the irritation of the sensory nerve which results in elevated senses. The pain often affects the individual at night and hinders sleep. Changing the position of the hand may help relieve discomfort.
- In individuals with persistent problem, tingling is often followed by muscle cramps and severe muscular contractions which are often very painful.
- When the problem is untreated for several months, it may result in wasting of the affected muscles in the fingers and toes.
Diagnosis is based primarily on examination and history. No specific investigations are available, though the physician may request for blood examination if diabetes or nutritional deficiencies are suspected.
Treatment For Tingling In Fingers
The treatment would depend upon the underlying cause,
- Splints may be used by individuals suffering from tingling at night to maintain the wrist in a straight angled position and avoid nerve compression.
- Ergonomics and limiting the use of the keyboard may be recommended in some individuals.
- Local shots of steroids aid in reducing inflammation and alleviate the symptoms temporarily.
- Minor surgical correction to open up the tunnel and decompress the nerve may be required in severe cases.