What Causes Sudden Onset Of Pricking Sensation In Hand And Fingers?

Posted on Sun, 6 Sep 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 5 Sep 2015 Answered on

Tue, 22 Sep 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi there. I am a young male with no major health problems (GERD being the worst) who suddenly felt very distinct pain like a needle being thrust into my right hand several times in the middle and index fingers. I was reading, sitting down on my bed with a pillow on my lap and my elbows resting on my pillow while holding my phone. I have experienced other pains at times but never like this. Should I be worried or is it my reading position? Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (-3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Posture related Paresthesia. Avoid prolonged postures

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for asking

I read your question and i understand your concern. This sudden onset needle like pain and sensations are called paresthesias and are due to no other reason but the poor posture which was compromising the flow to the hands and compressing the nerves thus resulted in this tingling sensation. It started evrsing as soon as you changed the posture. Nutshell no damage done. Just abstain from any such posture for long time any how. It is very common on saturday nights where people get drinks or get high and result in with prolonged poor postures leading to such compromises.

But your case of reading books and short term sensations is perfectly harmless and protective response from the body to change the posture and thats it. If you feel soreness on the site take some ibuprofen for the relief of pain and dont worry about anything.

I hope it helps. take good care of yourself and dont forget to close the discussion please.

regards
Khan

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar