I'm 61 and for many years have had pins and needles, mainly in my feet, but also in my back and chest. There is no pain, so I haven't seen my GP. Could you tell me the possible causes and remedies?
Pins and needles (the medical term is paraesthesiae) are sometimes related to problems with the peripheral nerves, the ones that carry sensation from the arms and legs to the brain, via the spinal cord. The causes can take up chapters of neurological textbooks, but the fact that yours have existed for years tends to rule out the more serious ones. Do they occur when standing or lying down, or at any time? Have you been in an accident, even years ago, which may have injured your neck or back? Do you have a long-term digestive problem? (Folic acid or vitamin B12 deficiency can cause paraesthesiae, as can stomach and bowel diseases.) Overbreathing, as in a panic attack, can also bring them on. Do see your doctor, who will want to rule out such causes. At 61, you should have a well-woman check, anyway.

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