Not everyone knows why the little finger is numb on the left hand. After all, such a pathological condition can be associated with many diseases. To help you narrow your search for possible deviations, we decided to provide a complete list of the diseases that cause this phenomenon.
Additional signs
To find out why the little finger is numb on the left hand, we will be a little further. Now we will consider what symptoms can be observed in a person together with this deviation. As practice shows, paresthesia of any part of the body is often accompanied by such not very pleasant sensations as “crawling creeps”, slight tingling of the skin, weakening of muscle strength, etc. It is worth noting that the presented symptoms can be observed not only on the little finger of the hands, but also on the entire limb, as well as on the other fingers.
The little finger of the left hand goes numb: causes of paresthesia
Such a pathological condition can be observed due to:
- local disturbances in blood circulation, namely with tissue ischemia (during compression of vessels located superficially);
- neuropathies of various origins (for example, toxic, diabetic, atherosclerotic, traumatic, frostbite, etc.), which are associated with a change in metabolic processes in nerve tissues and their microtraumatization;
- compression of the nerve endings located superficially (disturbance of innervation).
The most likely causes of paresthesia
The following pathological deviations in the body may well serve as an answer to such a difficult question about why the little finger is numb on the left hand:
- With tunnel syndromes that are associated with prolonged tension of the ligamentous tendons of the brush apparatus. This can occur due to compression of the nerve in the carpal-elbow joint. As a rule, such a deviation arises after a long work on the computer, during activities where fine motor skills are required, in the process of knitting, drawing, sewing, playing musical instruments, etc.
- When squeezing the branches of the ulnar nerve, which "freeze" the little finger and ring finger. Such a pathology often occurs with neuritis, cervical osteochondrosis, radiculitis, etc.
- With diseases of the heart muscle and blood vessels, especially with coronary disease and pre-stroke condition.
- When the limbs are in an uncomfortable position for a long time (during sleep, in a bent state, while holding the support in transport, etc.).
As you can see, there are quite a few answers to the question of why the little finger is numb on the left hand. To find out which of the reasons relates specifically to your situation, you should definitely consult a doctor.
What to do?
What measures to take if the little finger of the left hand is constantly numb? The treatment of such a deviation is reduced to rubbing the entire hand of the limb well, and then to perform several simple movements (rotational, flexion and extensor). If discomfort occurs during work, it is recommended to take hour-long breaks for light exercise.
For those who have this phenomenon against a background of osteochondrosis, it is advisable to regularly go for massage, constantly move, do not lift weights, and in case of exacerbations, be sure to consult a neurologist. If you do not have any problems with the spinal column, then it is recommended to undergo an examination for diseases of the heart muscle and blood vessels, as well as diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis and other abnormalities. Specialists like a therapist or cardiologist can help you with the diagnosis.
In the event that finger numbness occurs in a dream, this unpleasant phenomenon can be prevented as follows: it is necessary to lower the limb down, shake it as much as possible, and then do self-massage, kneading the little finger or gently pinching it. Such actions should restore blood circulation, after which paresthesia will immediately pass.