Common Causes of Hand Numbness

Hand numbness is a common issue experienced by many people. There are two main nerves that serve the hand and if either of them become compressed you will experience hand numbness.

The two most common nerves that are compressed are the median nerve at the wrist (Carpal Tunnel), and the ulnar nerve at the elbow (Cubital Tunnel). When a nerve becomes compressed it no longer can provide transmission of nerve signals and you will feel numbness or weakness.

Carpal tunnel is the most common nerve compression. When your median nerve is compressed at the wrist you feel numbness in you thumb, index, and long fingers. You will often experience sharp pain that is worse at night and will wake you up.

Cubital tunnel syndrome is the second most common nerve compression. In addition to compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, it is also common for your ulnar nerve to move (subluxate), over the bones in your elbow. This moving of the nerve, in addition to compression, can cause loss of signal in the nerve and feelings of numbness and weakness. Up to 40% of Americans experience ulnar nerve subluxation. While not all people with subluxation experience cubital tunnel, many of them do.

If you are experience numbness from carpal or cubital tunnel syndrome you can try nightime bracing. This prevents flexion of the wrist and/or elbow to limit pressure of your nerves. If this does not work surgical decompression can help. At the elbow, a rerouting of the ulnar nerve to prevent subluxation may also be necessary.

In addition to compression of the nerves at your elbow or wrist, you may also have compression at your neck. Called ‘cervical radiculopathy,’ this is when your nerve becomes pinched coming out of your spine.

If you are experiencing hand numbness, make an appointment today.