Hand and wrist discomfort can make everyday tasks more difficult, whether you’re typing, driving, gardening, or simply trying to sleep through the night. Many people first notice symptoms like numb fingers, tingling when they grip objects, or hand pain that wakes them from sleep without knowing what’s causing it. One of the most common sources of these symptoms is carpal tunnel–related compression of the median nerve.

At Slocum Orthopedics in Eugene, Oregon, our fellowship-trained, board-certified hand and wrist specialists diagnose and treat these symptoms with the goal of restoring comfort and function. If you want a deeper look at the condition itself, visit our Carpal Tunnel Syndrome page. For details about surgical options, see our Carpal Tunnel Release treatment page.

What Is Causing My Hand and Wrist Pain?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage in the wrist through which the median nerve travels. When this space becomes crowded or inflamed, the nerve can become compressed. This pressure often leads to symptoms that people describe as tingling, pins and needles, burning, or numbness in the fingers.

Many patients notice symptoms at night, when the wrist naturally bends during sleep. Others feel discomfort while holding a phone, gripping a steering wheel, or performing tasks such as gardening or lifting objects. These early signs are often what prompt someone to wonder, “Do I have carpal tunnel?”

For a more detailed explanation of causes and symptoms, visit our Carpal Tunnel Syndrome condition page.

Why Does My Hand Go Numb at Night?

Nighttime numbness is one of the hallmark symptoms associated with median nerve compression. When the wrist flexes during sleep, pressure within the carpal tunnel increases and can irritate the nerve, leading to tingling or waking with the need to “shake out” the hand.

People may develop this pattern for many reasons, including wrist anatomy, repetitive hand use, or underlying medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, thyroid disease, obesity, or pregnancy. If numbness or tingling becomes consistent or begins affecting daily tasks, it’s a good time request an appointment to meet with a hand and wrist specialist.

How Is Hand and Wrist Numbness Evaluated?

A carpal tunnel evaluation typically begins with a review of your symptoms and a simple physical exam. Your specialist may look for weakness in the thumb muscles, perform Tinel’s or Phalen’s maneuvers to reproduce symptoms, or use ultrasound to evaluate the median nerve. In some cases, a nerve conduction study may be recommended if another diagnosis is suspected or if required by insurance, but this test is not necessary to schedule an appointment at Slocum. Most patients can be evaluated and guided toward the right treatment option based on the history and exam alone.

Do I Need Surgery If My Hands Tingle?

Not everyone with hand tingling or numbness needs surgery. However, if symptoms are worsening or interfering with daily life, carpal tunnel release may be recommended. At Slocum, many patients can have the procedure performed using local anesthesia, and in some cases, both hands can be treated during the same visit. This can be especially helpful for older adults or those with complex medical conditions who prefer to avoid general anesthesia.

After surgery, patients can often wash their hands the same day and typically heal over the following weeks. Your surgeon will provide individualized guidance based on your exam and goals. For a full overview of the procedure, visit our Carpal Tunnel Release page.

Hand and Wrist Care in Eugene, Oregon

At Slocum Orthopedics, our hand & wrist team partners with patients throughout Eugene, Springfield, and the surrounding communities to diagnose and treat symptoms that may indicate carpal tunnel syndrome. Using modern diagnostic tools and minimally invasive treatment options, we help restore comfort and allow our patients to Live in Motion.

If hand or wrist symptoms are impacting your daily activities, contact Slocum Orthopedics to schedule an appointment and discuss the next steps.