Pins and needles
Temporary pins and needles
Most people have temporary pins and needles from time to time.
It happens when pressure is applied to a part of the body, which cuts off the blood supply to the nerves in that area. This prevents the nerves from sending important signals to the brain.
Putting weight on a body part (for example, by kneeling) or wearing tight shoes or sockscan potentially cause pins and needles.
Temporary pins and needles can be eased by simply taking the pressure off the affected area. This allows your blood supply to return, relieving the numbness or tingling sensation.
Other common reasons for temporary pins and needles include:
- acondition known as Raynaud's disease which affects the blood supply to certain areas of the body, such as the fingers and toes, and is usually triggered by cold temperatures or sometimes anxiety or stress
- hyperventilating (breathing too quickly)
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Read about pins and needles (paraesthesia), a pricking, burning, tingling or numbing sensation that is usually felt in the arms, legs, hands or feet.
Temporary pins and needles
Most people have temporary pins and needles from time to time. It happens when pressure is applied to a part of the body, which cuts off the blood supply to the nerves in that area. This prevents the
Long-lasting pins and needles
Sometimes, pins and needles can occur over a long period of time. It can be a sign of a wide range of health conditions, including: diabetes a condition in whichthere is too much glucose in the bl
When to see your GP
Most cases of pins and needles are temporary and the sensation disappears afterthe pressure istaken off the affected area. See your GPif you constantlyhave pins and needles or ifit keeps coming back.
Other causes
Long-lastingpins and needles may also be caused by: a condition that damages the nervous systemsuch as a stroke , multiple sclerosis or in extremely rare cases, a brain tumour exposure to toxic s
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