What is the cause of pins and needles in the body?
Pins and needles’ (paraesthesia) is a sensation of uncomfortable tingling or prickling, usually felt in the hands or feet. The affected area is sometimes said to have ‘fallen asleep’. A common cause is leaning or lying awkwardly on a limb, which either presses against the nerves or reduces the blood supply to the local area. Changing position quickly restores normal feeling. Any numbness is soon replaced by the tingling and prickling sensation, as the nerves start sending messages again to the brain and spinal cord. In some cases, pins and needles are caused by nerve damage or certain disorders of the central nervous system. Always see your doctor if you experience frequent or persistent bouts of pins and needles. Symptoms The symptoms of pins and needles include: * Hands and feet are usually affected * Initial numbness and heaviness * Prickling and tingling sensation on the skin * Return of normal feeling a few minutes after changing position. A range of causes Pins and needles can be
