tingling sensation

How to treat tingling sensation in the left arm

Fact Checked

Tingling sensation in the left arm happens when the nerves have been compromised or flow of blood has been interrupted. It is characterized as the feeling of pins and needles and eventually becomes numb.

Causes of tingling sensation

  • Poor circulation of blood in the area caused by the position of sitting or leaning the arm on a wall or on a counter. Generally, wearing tight clothing or jewelry and sleeping on the left arm. The hands become chilled along with a clammy sensation. This can be a symptom of atherosclerosis.
    tingling-sensation
    Perform gentle stretches for the arm and wrist rotations to lessen the pressure placed on the joints.
  • Vitamin D and B12 deficiency
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Vascular disorder
  • Nerve damage
  • Stroke
  • Diabetes, high blood pressure and high levels of cholesterol

Treatment

  • Tingling sensations can be caused by Vitamin D and B12 deficiencies. Increase the intake of these supplements and eat a balanced diet.
  • Perform gentle stretches for the arm and wrist rotations to lessen the pressure placed on the joints.
  • Seek the help of the physical therapist for some exercises to lessen the nerve damage in the back, neck and arm and improve blood circulation if the condition is due to diabetes.
  • Apply a warm compress on the affected area. The warm compress can be in the form of a warm cloth or a heating pad applied directly on the area for proper flow of blood by relaxing the nerves and the muscles. Apply for several minutes and repeat several times until the tingling sensation disappears.
  • Massage the affected area to increase circulation. Warmed olive oil can be used for massaging the area for at least 5 minutes. Continue with this procedure until the tingling sensation in the area disappears.
  • If suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, avoid performing activities that result to the worsening of the condition. Maintain proper posture and when working keep the wrist is a straight position to lessen the symptoms of tingling sensation.
  • Elevate the affected area by raising the left arm for several minutes for proper blood circulation and relief from the tingling sensation.
  • Make a paste using turmeric powder mixed with a few drops of water. Mix until it becomes a paste and apply directly on the affected area. Massage the area for several minutes until the tingling sensation disappears.

Additional measures

  • Keep the body hydrated by drinking plenty of water every day.
  • Perform cardiovascular and aerobic exercises regularly for at least 30 minutes every day at 5 times a week.
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine to prevent poor circulation of blood.
  • Avoid tobacco products to prevent damaging the nerves and worsen the condition.

FACT CHECK

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003206.htm

https://www.healthline.com/health/left-arm-numb

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003206.htm

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