Published on: 4/28/2025
Pins and needles all over your body might be due to nerve problems such as sensory neuropathy, which can sometimes be linked to conditions like diabetes, and it can be managed by treating the underlying cause along with supportive care.
When you feel pins and needles all over your body, your nerves might be sending unusual signals. This sensation, also called paresthesia, can be caused by sensory neuropathy—a condition where the small nerve fibers aren’t working as well as they should. One common cause is diabetic peripheral neuropathy, where high blood sugar damages nerves over time. Other medical conditions or even side effects from certain medications can lead to similar symptoms. In this condition, the nerves send signals that make you feel tingling or numb all over. To manage this sensation, the first step is to identify and treat any underlying cause. For example, if diabetes is the culprit, keeping blood sugar under control is important. Your doctor might also suggest medications that help ease nerve pain, physical therapy to improve movement and reduce discomfort, or supplements and lifestyle changes that support nerve health, including avoidance of alcohol. If these feelings last a long time or become more bothersome, it is important to speak with a doctor who can help determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
(References)
Gomatos EL, Dulebohn SC, Rehman A. Sensory Neuropathy. [Updated 2024 Feb 25]. In: StatPearls [Internet].
Bodman MA, Dreyer MA, Varacallo MA. Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy. [Updated 2024 Feb 25]. In: StatPearls [Internet].
Marchettini P, Lacerenza M, Mauri E, Marangoni C. Painful peripheral neuropathies. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2006 Jul;4(3):175-81. doi: 10.2174/157015906778019536. PMID: 18615140; PMCID: PMC2430688.
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