At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, we know that hand numbness can be more than inconvenient—it can interfere with daily life, hinder performance, and indicate deeper neurological or spinal concerns.
What Causes Hand Numbness?
Hand numbness typically results from nerve compression or irritation along the cervical spine, arm, or wrist. Common causes include:
- Cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerves in the neck)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Peripheral neuropathy (often related to diabetes or systemic illness)
- Thoracic outlet syndrome
- Cubital tunnel syndrome
- Repetitive strain or overuse injuries
- Herniated discs or cervical spine degeneration
When nerves are compressed or inflamed, communication between the brain and hands becomes disrupted, leading to symptoms such as:
- Tingling
- Burning
- Complete loss of sensation