Published on: 4/7/2025
Numbness in the abdominal area can come from issues with the nerves in the belly, such as nerve entrapment (called ACNES), or from problems like diabetic peripheral neuropathy, where nerves are damaged.
One possible cause is Abdominal Cutaneous Nerve Entrapment Syndrome, or ACNES. In this condition, nerves that run through the muscles of your belly get "pinched" or trapped, leading to numbness or pain. Another cause could be diabetic peripheral neuropathy, which happens when high blood sugar over time damages nerves. Even though diabetic neuropathy usually affects the legs and feet, it can also affect other areas. Some people may have symptoms such as urinary retention and sensory changes, reminding us that nerve problems can show up in many ways. Other causes of abdominal numbness might include nerve injuries or inflammation in the area. To find the cause, doctors will look closely at the affected area, ask about your health history, and may use additional tests to understand what is happening with your nerves. If you ever experience these symptoms, it is important to talk to a doctor who can provide the proper evaluation.
(References)
Applegate WV. Abdominal Cutaneous Nerve Entrapment Syndrome (ACNES): A Commonly Overlooked Cause of Abdominal Pain. Perm J. 2002 Summer;6(3):20–7. PMCID: PMC6220638.
Patterson SL, Jafri K, Narvid JA, Margaretten M. A Young Woman With Sudden Urinary Retention and Sensory Deficits. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2018 Apr;70(4):635-642. doi: 10.1002/acr.23473. Epub 2018 Feb 18. PMID: 29125903; PMCID: PMC5876077.
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