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What I can do to stop numbness in my hands. I try red light therapy and TENS Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation but nothing so far

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Florida, NY

Any suggestions will be appreciated.

July 20
 · 
Reactions
A MyMSTeam Member

Gabapentin is good for nerve pain in the hands too. I also had carpel tunnel surgery in both hands 10 years ago.

July 21
A MyMSTeam Member

Hi there, I've never heard of using either of those methods for your hands-I believe those are for other areas of your body. Stretch your hands several times a day, use a stress ball, consider getting a splint in the meantime. Also get assessed for neuropathy and treatments for that.

July 20
A MyMSTeam Member

When did it start?

July 20
A MyMSTeam Member

I take 800 mg of gabapentin 3 times a day for nerve pain. Anywhere and EVERYWHERE on my body that needs it. I also take 20 mg of baclofen 4 times a day for MS spasticity or muscle spasms and electric like shocks in my legs from MS. Im dealing. We all are dealing with different issues from MS.

July 20
MyMSTeam

Hand numbness is one of those frustrating MS symptoms that can really interfere with daily life. Since TENS hasn't worked so far, here are some other options worth exploring with your neurologist. Medications your neurologist might suggest:

- Lidocaine cream applied to the hands before activities like typing
- Anti-seizure Show Full Answer

Hand numbness is one of those frustrating MS symptoms that can really interfere with daily life. Since TENS hasn't worked so far, here are some other options worth exploring with your neurologist. Medications your neurologist might suggest:

- Lidocaine cream applied to the hands before activities like typing
- Anti-seizure medications like gabapentin or pregabalin, which are FDA-approved for nerve pain
- Certain antidepressants that treat nerve pain as well as mood Self-care strategies that MyMSTeam members have found helpful:

- Applying ice packs or holding an ice-cold drink to cool the hands
- Gentle hand massage or using squeeze balls
- Pool/water exercise, which many find helpful without overheating
- Avoiding heat and overexertion, as these can worsen symptoms
- Stress management like meditation or yoga If numbness is worsening or linked to a relapse, a short course of corticosteroids prescribed by your doctor may also help speed recovery. Always loop in your neurology team about any changes so they can tailor the best plan for you.

July 20

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