The truth is that numbness, tingling, and the sensation that your hands have “fallen asleep” can happen for several different reasons.
Why Does a Hand Fall Asleep?
Your nerves act like communication highways between your brain and the rest of your body.
When one of those nerves becomes compressed or irritated, the signals traveling through it can become disrupted. This may lead to symptoms such as:
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Burning sensations
- Weakness
- Pins-and-needles feelings
Sometimes this happens simply because you’ve slept in an awkward position.
Other times, recurring symptoms may indicate an underlying issue that deserves attention.
One Common Cause: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
One of the most common causes of hand numbness is a condition called carpal tunnel syndrome.
Inside the wrist is a narrow passageway known as the carpal tunnel. A major nerve called the median nerve passes through this tunnel.
