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What causes numbness in the fingers?

Mar 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
In general, finger numbness may be caused by cold stimulation, improper posture, prolonged repetitive movements, carpal tunnel syndrome, cervical spondylosis, or other similar reasons. Symptomatic treatments such as general therapy and medication may be required. If finger numbness occurs frequently, it is recommended to use warm water for hand washing in daily life, with a comfortable temperature, as this can help alleviate the numbness to some extent.

Generally, finger numbness may be caused by cold exposure, improper posture, prolonged repetitive movements, carpal tunnel syndrome, cervical spondylosis, and other factors. Symptomatic management such as general treatment and medication may be needed. If discomfort persists, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

　　

1. Cold Exposure

When temperatures are excessively low, the blood vessels in the fingertips constrict due to cold stimulation, slowing blood circulation and subsequently causing finger numbness. This condition typically does not accompany other symptoms but presents as transient numbness in the fingers. It is important to keep the hands warm in daily life, and applying warm compresses or massage may help improve blood circulation and relieve the numbness.

2. Improper Posture

Maintaining poor posture for extended periods, such as looking down at a mobile phone or bending the wrists excessively while working on a computer, can compress nerves and impede blood circulation, leading to finger numbness. This may be accompanied by neck, shoulder, or wrist pain. It is recommended to adjust work and lifestyle habits and maintain correct sitting posture and hand positioning.

3. Prolonged Repetitive Movements

Engaging in tasks or activities requiring fine finger movements for extended periods can place the hand muscles and nerves in a tense state, causing impaired local blood circulation and nerve compression, which may result in finger numbness. Symptoms may also include hand fatigue and soreness. It is recommended to take regular breaks and perform hand-relaxation exercises such as clenching fists and stretching fingers.

4. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist through which nerves and tendons pass. When the wrist is compressed or injured, the median nerve becomes squeezed, affecting the transmission of nerve signals and causing finger numbness. Symptoms may also include wrist pain and hand weakness. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as diclofenac sodium enteric-coated tablets, prednisolone acetate tablets, and compound vitamin B tablets to alleviate symptoms.

5. Cervical Spondylosis

Chronic strain and degeneration of the cervical spine may lead to cervical spondylosis. In patients with cervical spondylosis, herniated cervical discs or bone spurs may compress cervical nerve roots, impairing nerve conduction and causing finger numbness. Symptoms may also include neck pain, shoulder and back pain, and headaches. It is recommended to undergo treatment under a doctor's guidance, including medications such as aceclofenac tablets, Jingfukang granules, and mecobalamin tablets.

If finger numbness occurs frequently, it is recommended to wash hands with warm water at a comfortable temperature, which can help alleviate the numbness to some extent.

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