What causes numbness in the arms during sleep?
Mar 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
The term "膀子" refers to the arm. Generally, arm numbness during sleep may be caused by improper posture, poor blood circulation, multiple sclerosis, brachial plexus nerve injury, cervical spondylosis, or other similar reasons. Symptomatic management may involve general treatments, medication, and other approaches. It is recommended to perform simple arm movements before sleep and upon waking, which can help promote blood circulation and alleviate numbness.
The term "bladder" refers to the arm. Generally, arm numbness during sleep may be caused by improper posture, poor blood circulation, multiple sclerosis, brachial plexus nerve injury, cervical spondylosis, and other factors. Symptomatic treatment methods such as general treatment and medication may be needed. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Improper Posture
When the arm remains in an improper posture or is under pressure for a prolonged period, it may compress the brachial plexus nerve or its branches, obstructing nerve signal transmission and causing a numb sensation. Besides numbness, there may also be mild pain or discomfort. This condition typically improves gradually after changing sleeping positions or moving the arm.
2. Poor Blood Circulation
During nighttime rest, the body lies flat and blood circulation slows down. Particularly when the heart's pumping capacity is weak, blood supply to peripheral areas such as the arms may decrease, causing numbness due to nerve oxygen deficiency. Symptoms may also include cold hands and feet, paleness, or slight swelling. Regular limb exercises such as ankle rotations and arm swings are recommended to promote blood circulation.
3. Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the myelin sheath within the central nervous system, causing nerve conduction disturbances. When nerves controlling limb movement and sensation are affected, symptoms such as limb numbness, weakness, or coordination problems may occur. Additional symptoms may include blurred vision, muscle spasms, and balance disorders. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as glatiramer acetate injection, dimethyl fumarate enteric-coated capsules, and teriflunomide tablets for treatment.
4. Brachial Plexus Nerve Injury
Brachial plexus nerve injury may be caused by trauma, fractures, tumors, or other factors, leading to impaired nerve conduction and symptoms such as numbness and weakness in the upper limb. It may be accompanied by upper limb pain, muscle weakness, or atrophy. It is recommended to follow medical instructions and use medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release capsules, mecobalamin tablets, and vitamin B6 tablets to alleviate symptoms.
5. Cervical Spondylosis
Cervical spondylosis is a condition based on degenerative pathological changes in the cervical intervertebral discs. Changes in the cervical structure of patients may compress nerves that control the upper limbs, leading to impaired nerve conduction and numbness in the arms. Symptoms may also include neck stiffness, pain, dizziness, and nausea. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as chlorzoxazone tablets, eperisone hydrochloride tablets, and naproxen sodium tablets for treatment.
It is recommended to gently move the arms before sleeping and after waking up, which helps promote blood circulation and relieve numbness.
