Numbness, medically referred to as paresthesia when accompanied by tingling or “pins and needles” sensations, is an abnormal sensory experience caused by disruption of nerve signaling. It most commonly affects the hands, feet, arms, or legs and may be temporary, such as after prolonged pressure on a nerve, or persistent due to underlying conditions. Causes can include nerve compression, diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, circulatory problems, autoimmune disorders, infections, or neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis. Symptoms may involve reduced sensation, tingling, burning, or weakness in the affected area. While brief episodes are often harmless, persistent, progressive, or one-sided numbness—especially when associated with weakness or speech difficulty—requires prompt medical evaluation.