What can I do to relieve numbness in my right hand when riding my motorcycle?

Question

I don't remember this happening before, in fact I rode a motorcycle from N.C. to Texas years ago, but I have not rode one in about ten or more years, then I just recently started riding one again, and after 20 or more minutes my right hand starts getting numb or stiff or falling asleep, so what can I do to relieve this?

Answer 1

there is a product on the market called a throttle rocker. it fits on the throttle and allows you to relax your grip and keep the gas on by pushing with your palm. works great for long rides as well as giving you more leverage on the grip, therefore reducing the effort to twist the throttle. there are several brands out there, most are under 20 bucks. some under 10.

Answer 2

I too just recently started riding again after nine years of not having a bike and both my thumbs and fore fingers would go numb after 20 minutes or so. If your bike has a throttle lock like the Harleys do then you can adjust it so you are not constantly twisting it on, that could help but I found that by dropping my bars down an inch so that my hands were sitting a bit lower, that worked for me. Have just done a 1400km run and no more problems at all, hope this helps.

Answer 3

Steve,

I am another old timer, same problem, but mine is not limited to bike rides. I suspose your numbness is mostly in the thumb and first two fingers? If so, very likely the start of carpel tunnel. The guys susgestions are good, but one additional thing will work very well, almost if not completely eliminate the problem. Not saying it will fix it, but you can ride in comfort. Get a wrist brace, one of the wrap-a-round kinds, leave the thumb free. A fabric one with velcro fastners, or a leather/leather imitation one with a buckle. You want it to go as far toward the hand as is comfortable, and should be 3 inches or so long. Should fit snug, but not tight. Do not want to interfere with circulation. Mine started out at night, and on my Sunday afternoon rides. progressed to a full time addition. There are braces also for night wear, have a splint in the palm, hole for the thumb. They take care of the night tingles, but would be a pain trying to work. Mine is is a constant companion these days, but with the braces, I can deal with it.

Tomcotexas

Answer 4

I think Daniel K is correct, it would look like you and I are about the same age and I've had the carpal tunnel surgery in both hands done. I find that it helps a lot I also ride with gloves to absorb the vibrations. I'll also take a break or if on a LONG straight away and little traffic behind I'll take my hand off the throttle and shake out any stiffness.

You can go with a solution that one of my colleagues did was to get cruse control put on his bike so he can change hands

Answer 5

I get tingling/numbness in both hands all the time, but it's not caused by carpal or deathgripping...mine comes from two bulging disks in my neck and the only way to get rid of it entirely is surgery, which I'm saving for a "last resort" thing. When I sit straight up, my hands will start to "go to sleep" after a while and if I lower my head for a minute and look over my specs, everything comes back...I'm 63 and still riding every day. Rock on! K ;o)

Answer 6

Until you find/try all the solutions one of the best things you can do for either hand is to simply take them off the handlebars and lower your hands to your side. The reason anything "falls asleep" is poor blood circulation. Gripping a throttle for extended periods forces your throttle hand high. So....if your descending a hill...take your hand off the handlebars until you need the power. Same with coasting to a stop for a light or stop sign. You'd be surprised what a few moments...even seconds...of allowing your hand to rest at your side will do to alleviate that tingling feeling. Might help if while at your side you clinch and unclinch your fist a few times. I have the same problem...although probably not as bad as you do. Your 20 minutes is my 40.

Answer 7

Some very good suggestions above, depending on what exactly is your problem. It didn't use to happen to me, but it does now, ever since I started riding the HD. My problem seems to be the one tommy describes. My hands are in a different position on this bike, and the grips are larger. The left hand is relaxed enough, but the right gives problems. Definitely poor circulation. I've gotten too cold too many times. The hands go first for me.

Answer 8

Bikermog gave a good answer.
http://www.denniskirk.com/jsp/common/Frontpage.jsp
General Search - crampbuster - Handlebars & Controls - Throttles
Here's a better picture of it in use -
http://www.powersportrider.com/CGI-BIN/ZCATJPG?catalog=ST0206C
Pick - Street Cataolg
Go to - Index - Cruise Control - Crampbuster
The cruise controls are nice on long trips.

Answer 9

Cramp buster. I like it a lot. I had the same problem, but this unit helps me rest my hand and still keep control of the throttle.

http://www.crampbuster.com/

Answer 10

dont hold the grip so tight and lean somme of youe weight of and lean back a bit, you might be too tence, relax your hand as much as possible, wear gloves w/ most pading you can find to absorb the shock.