Numb left hand

[mtbmaranata]

My left hand goes completely numb, so bad that I can not change gears. When for bike setup but the problem remains. Any suggestions ?

[Ghost1]

I have the same problem, both hands get so numb that I have to look down for break and gear levers.

I have tried various types of grips and side mounted handles...nothing seems to work. I am continously changing hand positions and if conditions allow shake my hands.

I must however say that after about an hours riding I get some feeling back.

 

Help

[Minion]

Where did you go for a setup? You might need to go somewhere else.

Numbness is not normal and is usually the result of pressure on a nerve. This is normally due to setup issues e.g. bar and lever position amongst other things.

[Tankman]

My left hand goes completely numb, so bad that I can not change gears. When for bike setup but the problem remains. Any suggestions ?

 

ride with your right hand on the bar only.

use you left hand to indicate, point out pot holes, drink water, eat and wave at passers by!

[leeu52]

Little finger and ring finger on both hands, since 94.7

Now right wrist in on the act.

[The Saint]

Check your setup

[mtbmaranata]

Where did you go for a setup? You might need to go somewhere else.

Numbness is not normal and is usually the result of pressure on a nerve. This is normally due to setup issues e.g. bar and lever position amongst other things.

 

Cyclelab in Centurion did the setup.

[rattlesnake]

set up definitely not right....

[Mojoman]

Can it also be related to wrist position? I.e how much of a 'bend' you may have?

['Dale]

Also, train your upper body, as often the weight distribution on your hands is too high due to limited support from your core, lats, pecs, etc.

[Balsie]

As mentioned normally caused by pinched nerve. Also check your saddle and make sure you have quality bib shorts for long rides. Move around in the saddle as much as possible. Pinched nerve in your rear end can make your hands go numb.

[rattlesnake]

Check your setup

 

Specifically where your center of gravity is (might be too far forwards) and also check the angle of your forearms to your hands when gripping your handlebars, should be as straight as possible.... might be that your brake levers and shifters need to be moved downwards.

 

Also might be an element of core strength missing causing you to slump forwards on your handlebars.

[rudi-h]

sometimes on the hills I ride a bit upright with only my fingertips touching the handlebar to steer. That helps a lot. Only my MTB makes my hands numb, the road bike is fine

[mtbmaranata]

Thank you for all the advice. I think/hope core is well trained. Do cross training 4 x a week. I ride with Accoss bibs. Will check the rest.

[MintSauce]

Little finger and ring finger on both hands, since 94.7

Now right wrist in on the act.

 

Ulnar Nerve Entrapment. Usually due to issues where the nerve passes around the outside of the elbow ie the 'funny bone'. I had the same problems. Mine were due to sleeping with arms folded at a sharp angle and exacerbated by resting my elbow on the edge of the desk while working, causing pressure on the nerve. When it got to the point where my left hand was permanently tingly, I finally went to see a specialist.

 

Don't let it get out of hand, depending on the cause it could cause permanent damage.

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ulnar_nerve_entrapment

['Dale]

Thank you for all the advice. I think/hope core is well trained. Do cross training 4 x a week. I ride with Accoss bibs. Will check the rest.

Relaxed and loose grip is also important. Do not grab the bars. All the best!