Experiencing numbness in the hands is quite common among many middle-aged and older individuals. The main causes of this feeling are: 1) compression of the nerves in the arms, and 2) cervical spondylosis or arthritis in the neck.
There is a significant link between hand numbness and muscle knots. In the initial phases of cervical spondylosis, one may experience muscle strain and spasms in the neck area. If these problems continue for a prolonged period, they can result in the development of ‘muscle knots,’ which might compress blood vessels and nerves, leading to joint instability and numbness.
To find out if cervical spondylosis is the reason for your hand numbness, check for any tight spots or knots in the tendons at the base of your neck and the upper inner part of your shoulder blade. Along with addressing these local tendon knots, you can try some neck stretching exercises. For instance, gently hold your neck and lift your head for 30 seconds at a time. You can gradually increase the duration based on what feels comfortable for you.
To achieve better results, consider practicing Ba Duan Jin (also known as the eight pieces of brocade) Qigong daily or every other day. This form of Qigong includes eight sets of exercises, with seven out of the eight focusing on stretching and massaging the neck muscles, tendons, ligaments, and the meridians that flow through the neck. It’s an excellent way to provide physical therapy for your neck, promote relaxation, and enhance your overall well-being.
To learn more about Qigong and Ba Duan Jin, I recommend reading this book: ” Qigong for Better Mind and Body Health“. Here is a free sample of the book.