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Beginner Running

Hands start to get numb after a long distance. how to improve on that

asked about 1 year ago | Report

Hi, i feel my hands going numb at about 15-18k ..and it leads to a sensation in my fingers. Though i try clapping to increase the blood flow, it does not improve by a lot. Also, after that point, i cannot sprint anymore or increase my running speed.

Any suggestions on what can i do about it ?? Thanks in advance..

6 answers

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  • I am definitely not a doctor but it sounds like you could have raynaud's disease. I would try researching that. It is often caused by cold but can also be brought on by stress to the body and long distance running definitely counts as stress. I know several runners who experience this, although not nearly to the extent you describe. I think it's somewhat common because when you are working your body that hard, your body can only pump blood through your body so quickly and efficiently so its biggest focus is your major organs, not your extremities.

    answered about 1 year ago |Report

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  • I would look at hand position. Are they above the elbow? Do your hands swell at all? I occasionally have trouble with swelling when walking or hiking because I keep my hands nearer my waist when doing those activities.

    answered about 1 year ago |Report

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  • I agree with Laurie. I have Raynaud's disease and low circulation in my hands and feet. When it gets really cold my fingers turn so white they are practically see through. This never happens while running, however I used to get pins and needles in my hands around 5k when I first started running. I would try wiggling your fingers while running and wearing light gloves (even if its not cold).

    answered about 1 year ago |Report

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  • I actually have the same problem. After a couple miles, my hands start to go numb. I usually have to straighten my arms out and flex my hands to get circulation back again. Maybe I'm holding them too high?

    answered 12 months ago |Report

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  • I also have Raynaud's. I try to keep ahead of the swelling and tingling by moving my fingers, making fists and stretching them out over and over every few minutes. I have this problem even walking. Having my hands higher than my elbows has also helped. And I never go out without gloves when it's below 60!

    answered 11 months ago |Report

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  • Hi Harsh, do you feel your hands get swollen? If it was true surely is due for liquid accumulation. Try to raise a bit your hands like if you were running and pump your fists (opening and closing).

    answered 11 months ago |Report

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