Why Are My Pinkies Numb? Causes and Treatments for Numbness in Pinky Fingers

Understanding Numbness in the Pinky Fingers

Waking up to numbness or tingling in the pinky fingers can be an alarming sensation. However, in most cases, temporary numbness in the pinkies is not a cause for concern. There are many potential explanations for pinky numbness that typically resolve on their own without treatment.

That said, persistent or recurring numbness in the pinky fingers may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Some possible causes of pinky numbness include:

• Pinched nerve in the neck, wrist, or elbow
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Ulnar nerve entrapment (Cubital tunnel syndrome)
• Raynaud's phenomenon
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• Stroke

Read on to learn more about some of the most common reasons for numbness in the pinky fingers and when it may be time to see a doctor.

Sleeping Positions Causing Pinky Numbness

One of the most benign causes of temporary pinky numbness or tingling is sleeping in a position that pinches a nerve or puts pressure on the hand. Sleeping with the hands tucked under the head, curled tightly to the chest, or pressed under the body can compress nerves and restrict blood flow.

This may lead to that "pins and needles" sensation of numbness or prickling in the pinky fingers. Changing sleep positions to allow the arms and hands to rest in a neutral, unsupported position typically resolves this type of numbness quickly.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital tunnel syndrome, also known as ulnar nerve entrapment, is another common cause of pinky numbness. The ulnar nerve runs from the neck down the arm to the hand and controls movement and sensation in the pinky finger and half of the ring finger.

When the ulnar nerve gets compressed or irritated in the cubital tunnel on the inner side of the elbow, it can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the outer elbow, forearm, and pinky finger. Common causes of cubital tunnel syndrome include:

• Bone spurs or arthritis in the elbow
• Scar tissue or cysts putting pressure on the nerve
• Inflammation or swelling of tissues around the nerve
• Leaning on the elbow for long periods
• Repetitive elbow bending or flexing

Treating cubital tunnel syndrome may involve wearing a protective pad over the elbow, icing and resting the elbow, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, or steroid injections. Surgery may be needed in severe cases that do not improve with other treatments.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common cause of numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. However, it can sometimes affect the pinky finger as well. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve gets compressed in the wrist due to swelling or pressure.

Potential causes include:

• Repetitive hand and wrist motions
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Arthritis
• Diabetes
• Hypothyroidism
• Injuries such as fractures or sprains

Treating carpal tunnel may involve wrist splints, NSAID pain relievers, physiotherapy exercises, and cortisone injections. Severe cases may require surgery to release pressure on the median nerve.

Raynaud's Phenomenon

Raynaud's phenomenon is a condition that causes the fingers to feel numb or cold in response to temperature changes or stress. During a Raynaud's attack, the blood vessels in the hands and feet constrict, temporarily limiting blood supply to the fingers.

As sensation returns to the fingers, they may throb, tingle, or feel numb. Raynaud's often starts in the pinky fingers and can spread to other fingers. Managing Raynaud's involves avoiding triggers, wearing warm gloves, trying relaxation techniques, and medications that improve circulation.

Pinched Nerve in the Neck or Wrist

A herniated cervical disc, arthritis, or bone spurs in the neck can pinch nerves that travel down the arm and cause numbness in the pinky finger. Car accidents and sports injuries are common causes of pinched nerves in the cervical spine.

Likewise, a pinched nerve in the wrist from tendonitis, cysts, or wearing a cast can irritate the median nerve or ulnar nerve and result in pinky numbness. Treating a pinched nerve may include rest, splinting, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or steroid injections.

When to See a Doctor for Pinky Numbness

In most cases, pinky numbness is not serious. Normal sensation typically returns within a few minutes or hours after removing pressure on the hand or changing sleep positions.

However, it's a good idea to see a doctor if you experience:

• Persistent or recurring pinky numbness
• Numbness accompanied by pain or soreness
• Loss of coordination or difficulty moving the fingers
• Numbness that starts suddenly or progresses quickly
• Color changes in the finger tips
• Numbness that spreads up the arm

Seeking prompt medical treatment is especially important if pinky numbness occurs along with other symptoms like:

• Weakness in the hand or arm
• Trouble gripping objects
• Burning or tingling sensations
• Loss of finger dexterity
• Swelling or stiffness in the joints

These signs may indicate an underlying condition needing further evaluation. Early treatment can help prevent permanent nerve damage or disability in severe cases.

Diagnoses for Persistent Pinky Numbness

If pinky numbness persists or keeps recurring, a doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about symptoms. They may order tests like:

• Blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies, diabetes, thyroid disorders, etc.
• Nerve conduction studies to measure how well nerves are signaling
• Electromyography to check for muscle and nerve dysfunction
• MRI or CT scans to visualize the cervical spine, wrist, and other areas
• X-rays to look for bone spurs, arthritis, or injuries

Based on the exam findings and test results, the doctor can diagnose potential causes like:

• Diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels from diabetes can damage nerves.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency: Low B12 levels affect nerve function.
• Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid slows nerve signals.
• Autoimmune disorders: Such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus which cause inflammation.
• Cervical radiculopathy: Nerve compression in the neck or cervical spine.
• Carpal or cubital tunnel syndrome: Nerve entrapment in the wrist or elbow.

Treatment will focus on managing the underlying condition causing the pinky numbness. This may include medications, supplements, splinting, physical therapy, or surgery in some cases.

How to Find Relief from Pinky Numbness

If the cause of pinky numbness is unknown, try these self-care tips to find relief:

• Rest the hands and avoid repetitive motions. Take breaks to stretch and change positions.
• Wear a wrist or elbow brace. This prevents bending or compressing the joint.
• Apply cold therapy. Use an ice pack or cold compress on the hand for 15 minutes to reduce inflammation.
• Try over-the-counter pain relievers. Anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen may help.
• Do finger exercises and stretches. Gently move the fingers through their full range of motion.
• Massage the hands and fingers. This promotes circulation to the extremities.

Avoid sleeping with pressure on the hands by using wrist braces or protective gloves at night. Propping the hands up on a pillow can also help.

See a doctor promptly if self-care and home remedies do not relieve your pinky numbness within a few days. Getting an accurate diagnosis is key to finding effective treatments and preventing nerve damage.

When to Seek Emergency Care for Pinky Numbness

In rare cases, pinky numbness can indicate a medical emergency needing urgent care. Seek emergency treatment if pinky numbness occurs along with:

• Sudden, severe numbness after an injury or trauma
• Loss of strength or inability to move the fingers or hand
• Tingling, burning, or crawling sensations (paresthesia)
• Intense pain in the neck, shoulder, arm, or hand
• Paralysis or lack of coordination in the fingers or arm
• Confusion, dizziness, trouble speaking, or vision issues
• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing

These may be signs of:

• Stroke: Loss of blood flow to part of the brain can cause numbness.
• Nerve damage from injury: Trauma like fractures or dislocated joints can damage nerves.
• Herniated disc: A ruptured disc in the neck can compress the spinal cord.

Prompt emergency treatment is vital to prevent permanent disability in cases of stroke or severe nerve compression. Call 911 or go to the nearest ER right away if pinky numbness occurs alongside other concerning symptoms.

Preventing Numbness in the Pinky Fingers

You can take steps to lower the chances of developing chronic or recurrent pinky numbness by:

• Avoiding repetitive stress activities involving gripping, grasping, or wrist flexing
• Maintaining proper posture when sitting or standing
• Making ergonomic adjustments at your workstation
• Exercising regularly to build strength and flexibility
• Managing chronic health conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and thyroid disorders
• Eating a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
• Using wrist braces or splints if you sleep on your side
• Wearing gloves in cold weather if you have Raynaud's

Getting nerve compression injuries or disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome promptly treated can also prevent lasting pinky numbness or nerve damage.

While pinky numbness is usually minor, see your doctor if it does not improve within a couple days. Getting an accurate diagnosis is key to finding the right treatment and avoiding permanent issues with your hands.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.