Pins-and-needles

A tingling or prickling sensation, often accompanied by numbness, felt in a part of the body, typically a limb, that has been compressed or deprived of blood flow. It's a temporary condition caused by the nerves being compressed and then rapidly reactivating, often described as feeling like tiny needles or pins are pricking the skin. The sensation usually resolves on its own once the pressure is relieved and circulation returns. This sensation can also occur due to various medical conditions such as vitamin deficiencies or nerve damage.

Pins-and-needles meaning with examples

• After sitting cross-legged for too long during the movie, Sarah's foot began to experience that familiar pins-and-needles feeling. She shifted her position, hoping the sensation would subside quickly, as it was becoming increasingly uncomfortable and distracting. She knew it would probably go away soon as circulation returned. The relief finally came with a wave of warmth.
• He woke up in the middle of the night with pins-and-needles in his arm, having slept on it awkwardly. He stretched, and gently moved his arm to try and speed up the process, waiting for the sensation to disappear. He knew from experience that it was a benign effect of sleeping on his arm for a while and that it wouldn't last. The feeling subsided quickly.
• The runner, after the marathon, felt pins-and-needles in his legs because of the massive exertion, and exhaustion he suffered. He massaged his aching muscles, hoping to help the process and speed up the feeling going away. Rest and time were the best remedy for his tired body. He looked at the time, he wasn't as tired after all.
• The doctor explained that her pins-and-needles sensation in her hands was likely due to carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition. She would likely have to undergo some minor changes, to help the sensation and not hurt her, in order to have the feeling go away and not return. He was thorough in his explanation.