Numbness and Tingling in the Hand and Wrist

This is a very common problem and you may describe that your hand feels numb, tingly, cold, or asleep, or may have sensations of pins-and-needles, burning, shocking, pain, or weakness.

Find a specialist

Find a location

Common locations for pinched nerves

Wrist

Elbow

Neck
Cervical Radiculopathy

Overview

Symptoms

Hand and wrist numbness and tingling can often feel like "pins and needles." The sensations can be mild and temporary or persistent and disruptive. Some common signs are:

Numbness
Tingling
Burning sensation
Electric shock-like feelings
Feeling that your hand has "fallen asleep"
Coldness or altered temperature sensation

Causes

Numbness and tingling symptoms usually indicate a nerve problem. Nerve problems may occur due to overuse, injuries, or medical problems like diabetes, but often nerve problems occur spontaneously. Most commonly the problem is pinching of the nerve in a tight area.

The specific location of your numbness and tingling may help to narrow down possible causes:

Thumb, index, middle fingers

Carpal tunnel syndrome
Ring, small fingers
Cubital tunnel syndrome

Whole hand

Carpal tunnel syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome
Cervical radiculopathy
Neuropathy associated with other medical conditions
Diabetes, autoimmune, chemotherapy, radiation
Discrete area beyond a cut
Nerve injuries

Diagnosis

Hand or wrist numbness and tingling can come from many places - the wrist, elbow or neck. We work with you to determine when your symptoms began, which areas are affected, any worsening symptoms and any associated conditions or symptoms. A physical examination will help determine the best path for testing and treatment.

Why treatment matters

Hand and wrist numbness can be your body's way of saying a nerve is irritated, compressed or damaged. Getting early treatment protects functioning and prevents further nerve damage and can identify any underlying conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases. Getting treatment can also improve your quality of life and restore comfort and normal function.

Take the next step

Our board-certified specialists are here to help you heal. They can often diagnose the problem in one visit and get you started with a personalized treatment plan. We offer a wide variety of treatment options.