What causes hand pain and numbness?
Patient: I have had type2diabetes for more than 35 years. have had periphial neur opothy forabout 25 of those years bilaterly in my feet. However it only manifests in making my feet feel coldBut about a yearago, my hands fbegan to fall asleep. but about six weeks ago, I awoke to find my hands holding a porcupine struggling to get free, accompanied by excruciating pain as if an ice pick was being thrust through my hands. I frequently drop small items from my hands. pages in printed matter are difficult to turn. Doctor: Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.  The pain and numbness in the hand can be related to neuropathy or nerve root compression at the level of cervical vertebra.   Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.