Why Is My Hand Numb?

One of the more common issues I see in my clinic is patients experiencing pain and numbness in their arms and hands. With easy access to online health information, many individuals attempt to diagnose themselves before seeking professional care. More often than not, they arrive at a self-diagnosis of a “pinched nerve” or carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Given how prevalent repetitive tasks are in both office and industrial settings, it’s understandable why CTS is a common assumption when dealing with hand numbness.

Fortunately, this is usually not the case. True carpal tunnel syndrome often requires surgery and, even then, may not always resolve symptoms—especially if the underlying cause originates further up the arm or around the neck. The good news is that CTS is relatively easy to rule out through a thorough clinical assessment, including a review of symptoms and orthopedic and neurological testing.

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed at the carpal tunnel, located on the palm side of the wrist. This condition primarily affects sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger. Specific tests and symptom patterns help determine whether CTS is the true cause of numbness and discomfort.

If It’s Not CTS, What Could It Be?

More often than not, the numbness and pain stem from a broader nerve irritation occurring further up the arm, neck, or shoulder. The positive takeaway? With an accurate diagnosis, targeted treatment such as Active Release Technique (ART), and simple modifications to daily activities, most patients recover quickly. However, recovery can be influenced by several complicating factors, including the duration of symptoms, past surgeries, osteoarthritis, or underlying conditions such as diabetes, which can significantly affect nerve function.

The Role of Workplace Ergonomics and Activity Modification

In previous articles, I’ve discussed the importance of workstation ergonomics and how prolonged computer use can contribute to nerve-related discomfort. If you suspect your workspace setup may be a factor, I encourage you to review those resources.

One of the most important aspects of treatment is modifying the activities that contribute to pain. Whether the cause is work-related or recreational, failing to make necessary adjustments can slow recovery and increase the likelihood of recurrence. While the internet can be a valuable tool for health education, self-diagnosis often leads to delays in receiving the proper care. If you’re experiencing persistent hand numbness, consulting a qualified healthcare provider is always the best course of action.