Numbness of the hands and/or feet may be helped by natural remedies. Find out about these natural treatments, as well as more information about the condition.

Other sensations may be experienced such as burning or pins-and-needles. The following symptoms can result from numbness:

• a burning sensation
• loss of sensitivity
• pain due to contact with usually non-harmful stimuli
• unusual sensations, including tingling

Causes of numbness (of the hands and/or feet)

Numbness is caused by damage, irritation or compression of nerves.

Causes can be separated into:

Brain and nervous system conditions such as:

Acoustic neuroma/ Brain tumour/Guillain-Barre syndrome/ Herniated disk/ Peripheral nerve injuries/ Peripheral neuropathy/ Spinal cord injury.

Trauma or overuse injuries such as:

Chronic conditions such as: Alcohol use disorder/ Diabetes/ Fabry's disease/ Multiple sclerosis/ Porphyria/ Raynaud's disease/ Sjogren's syndrome

Infectious diseases such as:

Lyme disease/ Shingles

Interventions for numbness

Exercise:

Exercise promotes muscle growth, which may reduce some symptoms of neuropathy.

Exercise can also help combat several health issues that cause neuropathy such as diabetes, which can lead to peripheral neuropathy. Exercise helps the body manage blood sugar levels, which may reduce the risk of diabetes and its complications.

Diet:

Dietary changes that lower the blood sugar level can ease symptoms of neuropathy or potentially prevent it.

A diet rich in fibre and low in simple carbohydrates can prevent blood sugar spikes. Try excluding or reducing the following food types:

• white bread products, including white pasta
• sweets
• processed snacks

Additionally, try:

• Eating antioxidant-rich foods, such as blueberries, walnuts, fatty fish, and flaxseed oil, which combat inflammation
• Eating high fibre foods and foods that the body absorbs slowly, such as certain vegetables, fruits, and nuts
• Reduce salt intake to under 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day
• Limit saturated and trans fats found in animal fats and processed foods
• Reducing or eliminating alcohol intake

Supplements recommended for numbness

B complex vitamins: B12 deficiency can damage the protective coating of nerves. B1, B6, and B12 supplementation may help ease neuropathic pain[i][ii]. Try B Complex Plus

Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant, and foods rich in vitamin E may reduce the inflammation that leads to nerve damage. Vitamin E may also help with some symptoms of neuropathy, including burning and tingling[iii][iv]. Try Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols, 90 caps)

Omega-3 fatty acids: These fats may help reduce inflammation and support nervous system health, potentially preventing neuropathy or easing symptoms[v]. Try Pure Strength Omega 3 (120 Caps)

N-acetylcysteine: This is an antioxidant that could reduce sensations of pain[vi]. Try NAC 600mg (90 Capsules)

Magnesium and calcium: Magnesium and calcium, when taken together, may help with muscle cramps, which exacerbate the discomfort of neuropathy[vii]. Try Calcium Magnesium (Citrate/Malate) (180 Caps)

Glutamine: This is a nonessential amino acid that may help protect the nervous system[viii]. Try L-Glutamine Powder (100g)