My Arm Feels Numb from My Neck
Numbness that starts at the neck and radiates down to the arm signals that nerves are compressed or irritated. Various causes exist including cervical disc, thoracic outlet syndrome, and fascial tension. The location of numbness can help identify the cause.
Where Nerves Can Be Entrapped
Arm numbness can occur when nerves are compressed at any of the locations below. The location of numbness alone cannot determine the cause—accurate examination is necessary.
Cervical Spine (Neck Vertebrae)
Nerve roots can be compressed by disc herniation or bony changes between cervical vertebrae 5-8.
Thoracic Outlet (Neck-Shoulder Junction)
Nerves and blood vessels can be compressed between the scalene muscles, clavicle, and first rib.
Elbow · Wrist
Nerves can be compressed at the elbow (ulnar nerve) or wrist (median nerve, carpal tunnel).
Fascia · Soft Tissue
Fascial tension or adhesion can cause numbness along nerve pathways.
Neck-Origin Numbness vs Other Causes
| Feature | Cervical Origin | Wrist/Elbow Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Related to neck movement | Yes (worse when turning neck) | No |
| Numbness area | Shoulder~arm~hand (entire) | Hand/fingers only |
| Accompanied neck/shoulder pain | Common | Rare |
Accurate Diagnosis Is Essential
Since numbness causes are varied, nerve examination and functional evaluation are needed to find the exact cause.
Circulation Therapy Relieves Nerve Compression
- Circulation HD: Release fascial adhesions around nerves to create space
- Circulation PT: Prevent nerve compression through posture correction