Peripheral Neuropathy: Why Your Hands and Feet Tingle — and What Helps

If your hands or feet feel numb, tingly, or like they are burning or "asleep," you may be experiencing peripheral neuropathy — trouble in the nerves that carry signals between your body and your brain. It is one of the most common reasons patients across Miami and South Florida see a neurologist, and the encouraging part is that many causes are treatable.

What it feels like

Neuropathy usually starts in the feet or hands and can include tingling or "pins and needles," numbness, burning or sharp pain, sensitivity to touch, or weakness. Symptoms often come on gradually and may feel worse at night.

Common causes

Peripheral neuropathy has many possible causes, including:

• Diabetes — by far the most common cause
• Vitamin deficiencies, especially B12
• Pinched or compressed nerves, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
• Thyroid problems and certain autoimmune conditions
• Some medications, heavy alcohol use, or exposure to toxins

Why getting the cause right matters

Because treatment depends entirely on the cause, an accurate diagnosis is the most important step. An EMG and nerve conduction study can pinpoint which nerves are affected and how — helping your neurologist target the real problem instead of just masking symptoms.

Treatment and relief

Treatment has two goals: addressing the underlying cause (for example, managing blood sugar or correcting a vitamin deficiency) and easing symptoms with medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Many patients see real improvement once the cause is identified.

When to see a neurologist

See a neurologist if numbness or tingling is spreading, getting worse, affecting your balance or daily activities, or showing up alongside weakness. Early evaluation can keep nerve damage from progressing.