Do you keep thinking that your hand has fallen asleep, but then the feeling persists? Or perhaps you experience unexplained pain in your fingers alongside difficulty with tasks such as writing, buttoning a shirt, or picking up small objects off the floor? If so, nerve compression could be the underlying cause.
In this post, we’ve defined nerve compression in the hand and wrist, provided an overview of its causes, and explored some of its most common symptoms and treatment options. To learn more and receive an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan for numbness in the fingers, contact us to schedule an initial consultation today!
Understanding Nerve Compression In The Hand And Wrist
What Is Nerve Compression?
Nerve compression, also sometimes referred to as a “pinched nerve”, occurs when excess pressure is placed on one or more nerves by surrounding tissues such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons. The condition can range from mild to severe and is commonly characterized by symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain, and/or weakness in the affected region.
Nerve compression in the wrist can disrupt nerve function in the hand and fingers, making it difficult to perform a variety of everyday tasks and resulting in significant pain and discomfort. The three nerves most commonly compressed in the wrist are:
- Median Nerve – Running down the arm and through the wrist, the median nerve provides motor control to certain hand muscles and supplies sensation to the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger.
- Ulnar Nerve – The ulnar nerve travels down the back of the arm and passes through the elbow before entering the hand. It provides motor function to certain muscles in the hand and supplies sensation to the ring finger and little finger.
- Radial Nerve – The radial nerve controls the muscles responsible for extending the wrist and hand and supplies sensation to the back of the hand and forearm.
Common Causes Of Nerve Compression In The Hand And Wrist
At Modern Orthopedics of New Jersey, our award-winning doctors diagnose and treat a broad range of hand and wrist nerve compression issues. Some of the most common include:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by compression of the median nerve where it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passage in the wrist.
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome – Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is caused by compression of the ulnar nerve where it passes through the cubital tunnel, a narrow passage on the inside of the elbow.
- Arthritis – Arthritis causes swelling and inflammation in the joints, which can lead to compression of the hand and wrist nerves.
- Nerve Injuries – Traumas such as sprains and fractures, as well as repetitive movement injuries, can cause swelling/damage that compresses the nerves in the hand and wrist.
- Cysts and Tumors – Various types of cysts and tumors can exert pressure on the nerves of the hand and wrist.
Symptoms Of Nerve Compression In The Hand And Wrist
Every case of nerve compression in the hand and wrist presents slightly differently. At Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, we often treat patients experiencing some or all of the following:
Numbness And Tingling
Numbness and tingling resulting from nerve compression in the hand or wrist may:
- Come and go, or be continuously present
- Affect the fingers, back of the hand, and/or forearm
- Be associated with a “pins and needles” or “falling asleep” sensation
- Be associated with burning, prickling, or itching
Pain And Weakness
Pain associated with nerve compression in the hand or wrist may radiate outward and be sharp, aching, or burning. It may also be accompanied by weakness in the hand and/or fingers that affects fine motor dexterity and makes tasks such as buttoning a shirt or picking up small objects difficult.
Decreased Sensitivity Or Loss Of Grip Strength
If you find that you can’t grip with as much strength as you used to or that your hand/fingers lack sensitivity to light touch, pain, or temperature changes, nerve compression could be the underlying reason.
When To Seek Medical Attention For Nerve Compression
Some cases of nerve compression in the hand and wrist are mild and resolve rapidly on their own without medical intervention. However, it is recommended to see a doctor if you experience any of the following:
Persistent Or Worsening Symptoms
Numbness, pain, or weakness in the hand or wrist that is severe, doesn’t resolve on its own, or worsens over time should always be evaluated by a medical professional.
Difficulty Performing Daily Tasks
If symptoms of nerve compression in the hand and wrist are preventing you from engaging in normal daily tasks and routines, it’s time for a medical consultation.
Symptoms That Affect Sleep Or Cause Discomfort
If your symptoms are severe enough that they’re affecting your quality of sleep or detracting from your overall enjoyment of life, seeking medical attention is critical. The team at Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey is ready to help.
Treatment Options For Nerve Compression In The Hand And Wrist
Treatments for hand and wrist nerve compression depend on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Many cases resolve with conservative treatment approaches, including:
- Rest
- Immobilization (splinting)
- Pain and/or anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy
In more severe or persistent cases, surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure on the affected nerve or nerves. Speak directly with one of our highly qualified hand and wrist specialists to learn more about surgical treatment options based on the specifics of your case.
Preventing Nerve Compression In The Hand And Wrist
While it may not always be possible to prevent compression of the nerves in the hand and wrist, the following measures can help:
Ergonomic Adjustments And Proper Posture
Investing time and energy to improve your wrist posture and ensure your work environment and home are ergonomically optimized can be game-changers for hand numbness and other nerve symptoms.
Exercises To Strengthen And Stretch The Hands And Wrists
We recommend consulting with a physical therapist to learn how to effectively integrate stretches and strengthening exercises for the hands and wrists into your daily routine.
Conclusion
From carpal tunnel symptoms to numbness or tingling in the back of the hand to ulnar nerve compression, there can be numerous manifestations of nerve compression in the hand and wrist. At Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, we possess the expertise and state-of-the-art technology to accurately diagnose and treat them all. Visit our main page to explore a full range of orthopedic treatments for various conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and beyond.
