Pins and needles (also known as paraesthesia) is a cold, burning, prickling or tingling sensation that is usually felt in the arms, legs, hands or feet. It can also happen in other parts of the body, such as the mouth and neck.
The sensation is normally painless and can cause numbness or itching.
Temporary pins and needles
Most people have experienced temporary pins and needles.
Pins and needles usually happen when weight applied to a part of the body cuts off the blood supply to the nerves in that area. For example, kneeling often causes pins and needles by limiting the blood supply to the nerves in your lower legs.
Symptoms disappear soon after pressure is taken off the affected area.
Chronic pins and needles
Chronic pins and needles that occur frequently over a long period of time are often an indication of a more serious condition, such as multiple sclerosis or diabetes (see Pins and needles - causes for more information). If you have chronic pins and needles, see your GP.
Treatment for chronic pins and needles will depend on the underlying cause. You may need to make simple lifestyle changes, or you may need more extensive treatment, such as medication or surgery.
