That pins-and-needles sensation in your foot or arm can be incredibly frustrating. What causes it, and what should you do? Christiaan Roosendaal, a neurologist at Slingeland Hospital in Doetinchem, provides clear answers based on his clinical experience.
Christiaan Roosendaal: "Prolonged pressure on nerves in your arm or leg—often from staying in one position too long—triggers this 'sleeping' feeling. The tingling is your body's warning signal to move, much like pain from a cut finger alerts you to injury. It typically fades within one or two minutes."
Read also: "Wake up with a cramp in your calf. How come?"
"This numbness most often affects arms and legs, where nerves lie closer to the surface. In nearly all cases, it's benign. Heavy alcohol use can lead to deep sleep where you ignore the tingling, pinching a nerve for hours and causing temporary weakness—known as 'Saturday night palsy.' Recovery may take longer, but it generally resolves on its own.
Those who lose significant weight quickly (tens of kilos) may experience it more frequently. Nerves rely on surrounding fat for protection; without it, they're more vulnerable to pressure, especially at elbows and knees."
"Tingling in your face, stomach, or back warrants attention, as does persistent or daily numbness. Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, involving wrist nerve compression, could be at play. Consult your GP for evaluation."
