Causes of Hand and Foot Numbness and Its Link to Nerve Compression in the Spine

Numbness in the hands or feet is a bothersome symptom that often causes concern among patients. While some cases are mild and temporary, persistent or recurring numbness may indicate nerve compression in the spine.
In this article, Dr. Walid Ibrahim Shalaby, consultant in orthopedic and spine surgery, explains the medical causes of numbness, how it’s related to the spine, and how these conditions can be diagnosed and treated effectively.

What Is Numbness, and When Should It Be Taken Seriously?

Numbness refers to the loss of sensation or tingling in a specific part of the body, often described as “pins and needles” or a mild burning or electric shock feeling.
According to Dr. Walid Shalaby, if numbness persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or muscle weakness, it should prompt a thorough evaluation of nerve health and spinal condition.

Common Causes of Hand and Foot Numbness:

???? 1. Herniated Disc (Slipped Disc)

Occurs when a spinal disc protrudes from its normal position and presses on surrounding nerves.

• Hand numbness is often linked to cervical disc herniation (in the neck).

• Foot numbness typically results from lumbar disc issues (lower back).

Dr. Walid Shalaby explains that a herniated disc is among the most frequent causes and is usually diagnosed using MRI scans.

???? 2. Spinal Canal Stenosis

This condition involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, which places chronic pressure on the nerves, particularly in elderly patients.

???? 3. Peripheral Nerve Compression

A common example is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, which causes numbness in the fingers due to pressure on the median nerve in the wrist.

???? 4. Circulatory Issues or Diabetes

Poor blood circulation or diabetic neuropathy can lead to constant numbness in the extremities.

???? 5. Nerve Inflammation or Autoimmune Conditions

This includes peripheral neuritis or diseases such as multiple sclerosis, which can damage nerve pathways.

How Is the Cause Diagnosed?

Dr. Walid Ibrahim Shalaby emphasizes the importance of a detailed clinical assessment, which includes:

• Locating the exact area of numbness

• Understanding symptom frequency and severity

• Identifying associated symptoms like weakness or imbalance

Then, the patient may be asked to undergo:

• MRI scans of the spine

• Nerve conduction studies

• Blood tests to check for chronic diseases

Treatment Options Based on the Condition:

 1. Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment:

• Physical therapy

• Exercises to strengthen the spine and core muscles

• Anti-inflammatory medications and nerve pain relievers

• Lifestyle modifications to reduce stress on the spine

 2. Minimally Invasive Procedures:

• Nerve root injections to reduce inflammation

• Often effective in mild to moderate disc compression cases

 3. Surgery:

Dr. Walid Shalaby confirms that surgery is considered in the following cases:

• When conservative treatment fails

• Severe nerve compression

• Muscle weakness or mobility loss
  Modern procedures use microscopic or endoscopic techniques, resulting in faster recovery and minimal complications.

Dr. Walid Ibrahim Shalaby’s Advice:

"Don’t ignore recurring or persistent numbness in the hands or feet. It could be a sign of nerve compression in the spine, and early treatment can prevent long-term complications."

Conclusion:

Numbness in the limbs may seem harmless at first, but it often indicates an underlying issue related to nerve compression in the spine or peripheral nerves.
Thanks to the experience of Dr. Walid Ibrahim Shalaby in orthopedic and spine surgery, patients can receive an accurate diagnosis and comprehensive care tailored to their specific condition—ensuring pain relief and improved quality of life.