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A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Alameda, CA
March 23
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A MyMSTeam Member

The only thing I have had that has helped, like a band-aid over a gushing wound though, was when I had steroid treatments, a calamity in the long run. Anymore I just try to 'flex' my fingers and let my mind do its thing, though it does not help the numbness I can still function in the end.

March 23
A MyMSTeam Member

@A MyMSTeam Member, that was the first symptom of MS that I experienced back in the 1996-97 time frame, when I was juggling a FT job, Grad School at night (2 3 hour classes a week, plus group meeting on non class nights, picking up shifts working p/t at the mall on weekends), as well as a girlfriend who was patiently waiting to become a fiancée….
I saw a doctor who shrugged his shoulders not suggesting a neurologist or anything. The symptoms eventually went away and I lived my best life….. That was 30 years ago, and I don’t recall there was anything I could do about the numbness/tingling. You just need to be careful that it doesn’t interfere with critical functions, like driving or even walking. Be very deliberate in taking steps, don’t just assume your body know what to do, thus avoiding the foot drop!

March 23
MyMSTeam

What helps with numbness and tingling symptoms in MS?

There are several approaches that may help ease numbness and tingling. Here are some strategies that have worked for others:

Cooling methods:
* Apply ice packs to affected areas
* Take cold baths
* Hold ice-cold drinks if your hands are tingling

Physical approaches
* Show Full Answer

What helps with numbness and tingling symptoms in MS?

There are several approaches that may help ease numbness and tingling. Here are some strategies that have worked for others:

Cooling methods:
* Apply ice packs to affected areas
* Take cold baths
* Hold ice-cold drinks if your hands are tingling

Physical approaches:
* Try gentle massage or kneading of the soft tissue
* Use squeeze balls for hand numbness
* Consider gentle exercise, especially water-based activities in a pool

Lifestyle adjustments:
* Avoid overheating, which can trigger or worsen symptoms
* Stay out of excessive sun exposure
* Be careful not to overexercise

Medical options:
* Talk to your neurologist about medications for nerve pain, such as gabapentin or pregabalin
* Ask about corticosteroids if symptoms occur during a flare
* Discuss whether your current disease-modifying therapy is working well for you

It's important to let your neurology team know about any new or changing numbness and tingling symptoms. They can help determine if these are MS-related and suggest the best treatment options for your situation.

March 23

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