Nerve Compression Syndromes: When Numbness and Tingling Signal a Bigger Issue

Nerve compression syndromes are more common than most people realise. They can affect your hand, wrist, elbow, or forearm, and when left untreated, they can impact strength, coordination, and long-term function.

It starts subtly—a tingle in your fingers when you’re working, or a dull numbness that lingers after a long day at the computer. At first, you might shake it off. But when these sensations start showing up more often, or interfere with sleep and daily tasks, it’s time to pay attention.

The good news? These conditions are treatable, especially when caught early.

What Is a Nerve Compression Syndrome?

Nerves run from your neck and spine down into your arms and hands, passing through small anatomical spaces along the way. If these nerves become pinched or compressed—often by swelling, tight muscles, or tissue inflammation—they can’t function properly.

This can lead to symptoms like:

• Numbness or tingling in the fingers
  
• Burning or shooting pain
  
• Muscle weakness or clumsiness
  
• Difficulty gripping or lifting objects
  

These symptoms are not just inconvenient—they’re signals that your nervous system needs support.

Common Types of Nerve Compression in the Arm

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Occurs when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist. Most commonly felt as numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers—often worse at night or while using your hands. Check out our blog on Carpel Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Involves the ulnar nerve being compressed at the elbow (often known as the “funny bone” nerve). Causes numbness in the ring and little fingers, especially when the elbow is bent for long periods.

Radial Tunnel Syndrome

Less common, but still significant. Involves compression of the radial nerve in the forearm, leading to aching or burning pain, often without numbness, and sometimes mistaken for tennis elbow.

When Should You Worry?

It’s time to seek help if:

• Symptoms are persistent or worsening
  
• Pain is interfering with work, sleep, or daily tasks
  
• You’ve started to notice weakness or loss of coordination
  
• The symptoms are spreading or lasting longer each day
  

Early intervention can prevent permanent nerve damage and help you recover faster.

How Hand Therapy Helps

At Hands for Living, we understand how frustrating and limiting nerve issues can be. Our team works with you to reduce symptoms, improve function, and prevent long-term complications. Your therapy plan may include:

• Nerve gliding exercises to reduce compression and improve mobility
  
• Splinting or bracing to rest and protect irritated nerves
  
• Manual therapy to release tight muscles and improve blood flow
  
• Ergonomic education to reduce stress on your nerves at work or home
  
• Postural correction and activity pacing to avoid future flare-ups
  

We start with a thorough assessment to identify which nerve is affected and what’s contributing to the problem.

Don’t Wait for It to Get Worse

Nerve compression syndromes don’t have to be your new normal. With the right support, many people return to full use of their hands and arms—without surgery or long-term medication.

If your fingers are tingling or your hands are starting to feel weak, let’s find the cause and work toward relief—together.