Meditation Mystery: Numb Hands, What's The Reason?

Numbness in the hands during meditation can be caused by several factors, ranging from mild to serious medical conditions. One possible explanation is nerve compression or damage in the hands, arms, or neck. This can occur when pressure is applied to specific areas, such as the Peroneal nerve channel in the lower leg, blocking the flow of potassium within the nerve channel and leading to miscommunication with the brain. Additionally, underlying conditions such as diabetes, an underactive thyroid, Raynaud's syndrome, or multiple sclerosis (MS) may contribute to hand numbness. Other potential causes include animal or insect bites, vitamin B12 deficiency, abnormal levels of certain minerals, or excessive alcohol consumption. It is important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the specific cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Nerve damage or compression

Ulnar nerve compression is another potential cause of hand numbness. This can occur from bending or leaning on your elbows for extended periods. Furthermore, certain diseases can cause hand numbness through nerve damage or compression, such as poor circulation from diabetes, an underactive thyroid, Raynaud's syndrome, or multiple sclerosis (MS).

It is important to monitor the frequency, duration, and accompanying symptoms of hand numbness. If numbness persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause and suggest appropriate treatments or lifestyle changes to manage the condition.

Poor circulation from diabetes

Numbness in the hands can be a symptom of many different conditions, one of which is poor circulation from diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels and is a common complication of diabetes. Chronically high blood sugar levels can damage nerves in various parts of the body, not just the hands, and prevent them from effectively carrying messages to and from the brain.

Over time, high blood glucose (sugar) levels can damage the small blood vessels that supply the nerves in your body. This stops essential nutrients from reaching the nerves, causing them to become damaged and even disappear. This can lead to a change in sensation or feeling, resulting in numbness, tingling, burning, discomfort, or shooting pains. Diabetic neuropathy can affect different types of nerves in the body, including those in the feet, organs, and muscles.

Peripheral neuropathy is the most common type of diabetic neuropathy and it affects the nerves in the feet and legs first, followed by the hands and arms. Signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy are often worse at night and may include numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or temperature changes, tingling or burning sensations, sharp pains or cramps, and extreme sensitivity to touch.

The consequences of peripheral neuropathy can be severe and even life-threatening. For example, if you get a cut or sore on your foot that goes unnoticed due to a loss of sensation, it can develop into an infection that won't heal due to poor blood flow. This increases the risk of ulcers and can eventually lead to amputation or even death.

While diabetic neuropathy cannot be reversed, it can be prevented or its progression slowed by consistently managing blood sugar levels and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It is important to regularly check your hands and feet for any injuries or changes in sensation and to seek medical advice if you notice any symptoms of diabetic neuropathy.

Ulnar nerve compression from bending elbows

Ulnar nerve compression, also known as cubital tunnel syndrome, occurs when the ulnar nerve in the arm becomes compressed or irritated. This nerve is responsible for helping you bend and straighten your pinky and ring fingers, allowing you to grasp items. It also sends sensory information related to touch, pain, and temperature.

When you bend your elbow, the ulnar nerve wraps around the medial epicondyle, a bony ridge on the inside of the elbow. Keeping your elbow bent for extended periods or repeatedly bending it can irritate the nerve, leading to symptoms such as numbness, pain, or tingling in the arm, hand, or fingers. This is because bending the elbow stretches the nerve and decreases its blood supply.

To prevent ulnar nerve compression, it is important to maintain good posture and avoid activities that can aggravate the condition. Some recommendations include limiting certain sports or activities, avoiding leaning on your elbow, keeping your arm straight while at rest, and wearing a splint during sleep to prevent elbow bending.

If you are experiencing numbness or pain, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for guidance and treatment options.

Incorrect posture

To prevent numbness in the hands and legs during meditation, it is important to pay attention to your posture and make adjustments as needed. This may involve using cushions or other props to support your body and ensure correct spinal alignment. Additionally, shifting your position slightly during meditation can help alleviate pressure points that may be causing numbness.

It is worth noting that the type of surface you are meditating on can also contribute to incorrect posture and subsequent numbness. For example, meditating on a hard surface like a hardwood floor or tile can cause discomfort and increase pressure on the legs and hands. Using a cushion or meditation bench can help provide the necessary support and cushioning to maintain correct posture and prevent numbness.

Discovering the correct posture for your body is an individual journey, and it may take time to find what works best for you. As you progress in your meditation practice, your physical, mental, and spiritual needs may change, and so too may your posture. Therefore, it is important to remain mindful of your body's signals and make adjustments as necessary to ensure a comfortable and effective meditation experience.

If you continue to experience numbness in your hands despite correcting your posture, it may be advisable to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions or other causes.

Lack of vitamin B12

Numbness in the hands can be caused by a variety of factors, one of which is a lack of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in several bodily functions. It is naturally found in animal-based foods such as meat, dairy, and eggs, as well as in supplements.

Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to a condition called vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, characterised by a lack of healthy red blood cells. This can result in a range of symptoms, including numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, fatigue, and a smooth and tender tongue.

The human body does not produce vitamin B12, so it is important to ensure adequate intake through diet or supplements. Certain factors can increase the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, including a strict vegan or vegetarian diet, certain medical conditions, and age. Older adults, in particular, may have a harder time absorbing this vitamin.

If you suspect that your hand numbness may be due to a lack of vitamin B12, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. They can perform a medical examination and recommend appropriate tests, such as blood tests, to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency may include vitamin B12 injections or supplements, as well as dietary changes to include more vitamin B12-rich foods.

Frequently asked questions