What causes numbness in the fingertips?

Aug 23, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Due to the need for practicing e-sports, which requires prolonged use of the hands, I am now experiencing numbness in my fingers, affecting my training. Why does finger numbness occur?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lv Zhiqin

Common causes of finger numbness:

1. Nerve compression: Maintaining the same posture for a long time, or conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, can compress nerves in the wrist or neck, leading to finger numbness.

2. Carpal tunnel syndrome: Excessive or improper use of the wrist over a prolonged period can increase pressure within the carpal tunnel, compressing the median nerve and causing numbness in the fingers. This condition is commonly seen in individuals whose occupations require frequent wrist movements.

3. Circulatory problems: Poor blood circulation, such as Raynaud's phenomenon or atherosclerosis, may also lead to finger numbness.

4. Diabetes: Due to long-term high blood sugar levels damaging peripheral nerves, patients with diabetes often experience numbness in the hands and feet.

5. Vitamin deficiency: Particularly a deficiency in vitamin B12 can impair nerve function, causing numbness in the limbs, including the fingers.

6. Trauma: Direct injury to the fingers or hands, such as fractures or contusions, can damage nerves and result in a sensation of numbness.