Why do hands get numb?

Hand numbness presents as an abnormal sensation in the hands that can cause difficulty with hand function and discomfort with performing daily activities. Holding a pen, turning door knobs, or even resting your fingers on surfaces can feel uncomfortable. This sensation usually involves compression of the nerves.  Other causes can be from circulation problems and diabetes with or without nerve compression.  Nerve compression often presents as numbness, especially at night.  Patients with nerve compression often report having to shake their hands and reposition in the middle of the night. 

Numbness in the hand can also be a result of a laceration or trauma.

There are three main nerves of the hand: the radial, median and ulnar nerves. Each of these nerves branches out to different areas of the hand. If one of these nerves is damaged or compressed, patients can experience hand numbness in its supported area.

Symptoms of hand numbness:

Numbness or tingling

Hand feels asleep

Burning or pins and needles pain

Difficulty with lifting or grasping objects

Numbness at night with need to shake hands

When does hand numbness require surgery?

Treatment depends on its cause. Conservative measures can include splinting, medications for nerve pain, rest, ice, and hand therapy. If traditional treatments do not relieve the numbness, surgery may be recommended to decompress the nerves. 

How is surgery for hand numbness performed?

Dr. Azouz will identify the nerves that are compressed and causing numbness in the hand. He will then make small incisions in and around the affected nerve to decrease pressure. 

What is the anesthesia and recovery from hand numbness surgery?

As with most hand surgeries, patients are sedated in a deep sleep to help them relax. Dr. Azouz will inject an axillary block to control pain during and after the procedure, lasting up to 24 hours.

After a nerve decompression, recovery can take between 4-6 weeks depending on the severity of compression, how long the nerve was compressed prior to surgery, and if there is a history of injury or prior trauma, if any.  Dr. Azouz will see patients in his office soon after surgery to monitor their progress. Hand therapy may be recommended to help with the range of motion as the nerves regenerate.

What is the cost of hand numbness surgery?

The cost of surgery ranges extensively. Dr. Azouz will start with a medical history and physical examination, which can help determine the cost. If the nerve compression is associated with a work-related injury, workers’ compensation carriers often cover the cost of surgery.

Does Dr. Azouz perform revision carpal tunnel release?

Dr. Azouz performs revision carpal tunnel release, and this usually involves the need for the operating room microscope and a specialized procedure called neurolysis, meaning he frees the nerve from scar tissue.

Call hand surgeon Dr. Azouz in Dallas today if you have numbness in the hand and/or carpal tunnel syndrome. 

We would love to help you at 972-702-8888.