What causes arm numbness or discomfort during sleep at night?

Generally, arm numbness during sleep at night may be caused by improper sleeping posture, daytime fatigue, periarthritis of the shoulder, cervical spondylosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, and other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a professional physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Improper sleeping posture

If the arm is compressed or remains in the same position for a long time during sleep, it may lead to impaired blood circulation and cause arm numbness. Symptoms usually gradually improve after changing sleeping posture. It is recommended to adjust your sleeping posture, avoid prolonged pressure on the arms, and use a suitable pillow to support the upper body, thereby reducing pressure on the limbs.

2. Daytime fatigue

Engaging in physical labor or prolonged computer work during the day can lead to excessive muscle use, resulting in the accumulation of metabolic products like lactic acid, which can cause muscle fatigue and tightness. This sensation may become more noticeable during nighttime rest and may be accompanied by mild pain or muscle stiffness. It is recommended to take appropriate breaks during the day and perform muscle relaxation exercises, such as stretching, to help alleviate symptoms.

3. Periarthritis of the shoulder

Periarthritis of the shoulder is a chronic aseptic inflammation affecting the shoulder muscles, tendons, bursae, and joint capsule. It is mainly caused by long-term overuse of the shoulder or acute shoulder injuries, which may lead to shoulder muscle adhesions, causing arm numbness, shoulder joint pain, and restricted movement. It is recommended to use medications such as acetaminophen tablets, nimesulide tablets, and ibuprofen sustained-release capsules under a doctor's guidance for treatment.

4. Cervical spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis refers to degenerative changes in the cervical vertebrae joints or intervertebral discs, which may be caused by improper sleeping posture, excessive neck movement, and other factors. During sleep, improper posture or unsuitable pillow height may increase the burden on the cervical spine, leading to arm numbness, which may also be accompanied by dizziness, headache, and neck stiffness. It is recommended to use medications such as aceclofenac tablets, Jingfukang granules, and mecobalamin tablets under a doctor's guidance for treatment.

5. Raynaud's phenomenon

Raynaud's phenomenon is a condition in which blood vessels overreact to cold or emotional stress, leading to vasospasm in the extremities and impaired blood circulation, which may cause arm numbness. During a Raynaud's attack, the extremities may turn white or blue, then red, accompanied by coldness, pain, or numbness. It is recommended to use medications such as glyceryl trinitrate patches, amlodipine tablets, and prazosin hydrochloride tablets as directed by a physician to alleviate symptoms.

It is recommended to perform simple arm-stretching exercises before bedtime or apply a warm towel compress to the arms to help relieve muscle tension.