Parasthesia is best described as?

• A. Sharp, stabbing pain
• B. No sensation
• C. Decreased movement
• D. Abnormal sensation such as numbness and tingling when sensory input is returning

Answer: (D)

Paresthesia is abnormal sensation—such as numbness, tingling, or a pins-and-needles feeling—that occurs as sensory input begins to return after being reduced or blocked. It often shows up when nerve pathways are reactivating after pressure is relieved or after anesthesia wears off. This is different from sharp, stabbing pain, which is a different quality of sensation; it’s also not a complete loss of sensation (anesthesia) or a motor deficit (decreased movement). So the description of abnormal sensory feelings during sensory return best matches paresthesia.