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Published on: 4/28/2025

Why Does It Feel Like Needles Are Poking My Skin and What Can I Do about It?

The needle-like pain you feel may be due to nerve irritation or nerve issues, and there are things you can do to help ease it once you talk with a doctor.

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Explanation

Sometimes, the feeling of needles poking your skin is because your nerves are sending extra signals that make you feel pain. This is known as neuropathic pain. Your nerves might be hurt or extra sensitive, which can happen with some skin problems or other conditions that affect how your nerves work. The nerves might feel like they are pricking your skin even though there is no injury there. It can also occur when the way your nerves send messages changes, due to a condition that affects your whole body or just your skin. When you feel this kind of pain, it is important to talk with your healthcare provider so they can help figure out why it is happening. They might suggest treatments like special creams, medicines to help calm the nerves, or other soothing methods. Simple things like a warm bath or gentle massage might also help ease the discomfort. Remember, your doctor is the best person to help you find ways to feel better if you have pain that feels like needles in your skin.

(References)

  • Stucky CL, Mikesell AR. Cutaneous pain in disorders affecting peripheral nerves. Neurosci Lett. 2021 Nov 20;765:136233. doi: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136233. Epub 2021 Oct 1. PMID: 34506882; PMCID: PMC8579816.

  • Snyder AM, Taliercio VL, Brandenberger AU, Rich BE, Webber LB, Beshay AP, Biber JE, Hess R, Rhoads JLW, Secrest AM. Effects of Pain From Atopic Dermatitis: Interview and Focus Group Study With Patients and Their Families. JMIR Dermatol. 2021 Oct 4;4(2):e29826. doi: 10.2196/29826. PMID: 37632808; PMCID: PMC10334955.

  • Gomatos EL, Dulebohn SC, Rehman A. Sensory Neuropathy. [Updated 2024 Feb 25]. In: StatPearls [Internet].

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