What Causes Pins & Needles in the Hand?

The sensation of pins and needles in your hands, also commonly referred to as your hands falling asleep, is medically referred to as paraesthesia. This causes a sensation of tingling and prickling in limbs or digits.

Common Cause

• The most common cause of pins and needles is from weight being exerted on a nerve or as a result of blood supply being limited to the area by leaning or lying awkwardly on your hands.

Other Causes

• Pins and needles can also be caused by nerve damage or disorders that affect the central nervous system. If paresthesia has become a persistent problem, seek medical attention. Breathing excessively, toxic substances, certain medications, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, hypothyroidism and stroke can all contribute to the occurrence of pins and needles.

Symptoms

• Hands and feet are the most common body parts that are affected. There is an initial numbness, during which you can't feel your hands. Then, there is a prickly and tingly sensation once you move them. After a few moments of movement or by changing your position the tingling sensation will subside.