Numbness happens when nerve signals are disrupted. This may occur due to:

• Direct nerve compression — e.g. tight muscles pressing on nerves, especially in the neck, shoulder, or lower back
  
  
• Slipped disc (herniated disc) — causing pressure on nerves exiting the spine
  
  
• Uncontrolled diabetes (diabetic neuropathy) — high blood sugar levels reduce blood flow and oxygen supply to nerves
  
  
• Stroke — nerve cells die from lack of oxygen, cutting off communication between the brain and body
  
  
• Multiple sclerosis (MS) — the body’s immune system damages nerve coverings
  
  
• Bell’s palsy — temporary facial paralysis or weakness due to nerve inflammation
  
  

Paralysis, where you lose voluntary movement, can result if nerve damage is severe.

• Paraplegia — paralysis of both legs
  
  
• Quadriplegia — paralysis of both arms and both legs