Numbness: Your Body's Signal That Something Is Wrong
Numbness is never normal—it's your nervous system saying something needs attention. We find and treat the root cause.
If you're experiencing numbness, you deserve answers. This symptom can indicate anything from a pinched nerve to more serious conditions.
What is This Condition?
Numbness (anesthesia) refers to loss of sensation in a part of the body. It results from disruption anywhere along the sensory pathway—from nerve endings in the skin to the brain's sensory cortex. Unlike occasional positional numbness (like when your arm 'falls asleep'), persistent or recurrent numbness indicates nerve dysfunction requiring investigation. The location and pattern of numbness provides important diagnostic clues.
Common Misconception
Numbness is probably just a pinched nerve—it will go away on its own.
Medical Reality
Numbness indicates nerve dysfunction. While a pinched nerve is one cause, other possibilities include: vitamin deficiencies (B12, B1), diabetes, autoimmune conditions, infections, toxic exposures, and even stroke. The cause must be identified—waiting can lead to permanent nerve damage.
Common Accompanying Symptoms
- Tingling or 'pins and needles' sensation
- Burning or electric shock sensations
- Muscle weakness in affected area
- Loss of coordination
- Pain (may be absent or severe)
Your pattern of numbness requires evaluation to identify the cause.