Chiropractic for Hand Numbness, Tingling or Pins and Needles

Find out how chiropractic for hand numbness, tingling or pins and needles can help.

Numbness, tingling, and the sensation of pins and needles in the hands, medically known as paraesthesia, are common symptoms experienced by many individuals. These sensations can range from mild to severe and are often associated with nerve dysfunction. People often seek various treatments, including chiropractic care, to address these symptoms. But can chiropractic therapy help alleviate numbness, tingling or pins and needles in the hands? This article explores what causes these sensations, and whether chiropractic interventions can provide relief.

Understanding the Causes

Numbness tingling or pins and needles in the hands occur when there is pressure, irritation, or damage to the nerves that supply sensation to the hands. The causes of these sensations are varied, and understanding the underlying issue is crucial for effective treatment. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Nerve Compression and Entrapment – One of the primary reasons for tingling and numbness in the hands is nerve compression. A well-known example is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), which occurs when the median nerve, responsible for feeling in the palm and fingers, is compressed at the wrist. This compression results in symptoms like tingling, numbness, and sometimes weakness in the hand. Another condition, thoracic outlet syndrome, involves compression of the nerves or blood vessels between the collarbone and the first rib, leading to numbness or tingling in the arms and hands.
2. Cervical Radiculopathy – The cervical spine, or neck region, houses nerves that extend to the arms and hands. When there is a herniated disc, arthritis, or spinal stenosis in the neck, these nerves can become compressed or irritated. This condition, known as cervical radiculopathy, can lead to numbness, tingling, or even pain radiating down the arms into the hands.
3. Peripheral Neuropathy – Damage to peripheral nerves, a condition known as peripheral neuropathy, can result from diabetes, infections, alcohol abuse, or vitamin deficiencies. This type of nerve damage can cause persistent tingling and numbness in the hands, often in a “glove-like” distribution across the fingers.
4. Other Causes – In some cases, tingling in the hands can be due to poor circulation, vitamin deficiencies (such as vitamin B12), anxiety, or even side effects from certain medications. It’s also possible for repetitive motions or poor posture to cause temporary nerve compression and lead to these sensations.

Can Chiropractic Care Help?

Chiropractors specialise in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, with a focus on spinal health. The idea behind chiropractic for hand numbness, tingling or pins and needles is that issues in the spine and musculoskeletal system can influence nerve function. Chiropractors employ several techniques, primarily spinal adjustments, to address these underlying issues.

1. Spinal Adjustments – One of the primary methods chiropractors use to treat conditions involving nerve compression or irritation is spinal adjustments. Spinal adjustments involve the use of hands to apply controlled force to specific areas of the spine, with the goal of improving alignment and mobility. Misalignments in the cervical spine (neck) can lead to nerve impingement or irritation, contributing to symptoms of numbness and tingling in the hands. By performing spinal adjustments, chiropractors aim to relieve pressure on the affected nerves and restore proper function.
2. Posture Correction and Ergonomics – Poor posture and repetitive strain can contribute to nerve compression and irritation, leading to symptoms of tingling or numbness. Chiropractors frequently incorporate posture correction and ergonomic recommendations into their treatment plans. By improving posture and advising on workstation ergonomics, chiropractors can reduce the risk of developing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or cervical radiculopathy that contribute to hand tingling and numbness.
3. Adjunct Therapies – In addition to spinal manipulation, chiropractors may use adjunct therapies such as soft tissue mobilisation and stretching exercises to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation. These treatments can help alleviate conditions like muscle spasms or nerve irritation, which may be contributing to tingling sensations in the hands.

Conclusion

Chiropractic care can help individuals experiencing numbness, tingling or pins and needles, particularly when these symptoms are related to spinal misalignment, nerve compression, or poor posture. Chiropractic for hand numbness, tingling or pins and needles should ideally be part of a comprehensive approach that addresses the root cause of the issue, whether it be nerve compression, poor posture, or another contributing factor.

For further information, speak to Richie Sanchez (Chiropractor) at New Farm Chiropractic 07 3254 3011 or book an appointment online (Click here).

References

Kuligowski, T., Skrzek, A., & Cieślik, B. (2021). Manual therapy in Cervical and Lumbar Radiculopathy: A Systematic Review of the literature. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(11), 6176. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18116176