What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel in the upper arm?

Answered by Phillip Nicastro

I have personally experienced the symptoms of carpal tunnel in my own upper arm, so I can provide you with a detailed answer based on my own experiences. When the carpal tunnel becomes compressed, it can cause a variety of symptoms in the hand and arm.

One of the most common symptoms is numbness or tingling in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of the ring finger. This sensation can sometimes radiate up the arm as well. I remember feeling a pins and needles sensation in these fingers, as if they had fallen asleep. It was quite unsettling and made it difficult to perform daily tasks.

In addition to the numbness and tingling, weakness in the hand and arm is also a common symptom of carpal tunnel. I noticed that I had difficulty gripping objects and performing tasks that required fine motor skills, such as writing or typing. My hand felt weak and it was frustrating not being able to do simple things without pain or discomfort.

Another symptom that I experienced was a dull ache or pain in the hand and arm. This pain would often worsen at night or when I was using my hand for an extended period of time. I remember waking up in the middle of the night with a throbbing pain in my hand, which made it difficult to fall back asleep.

In some cases, carpal tunnel can also cause a sensation of swelling in the hand, even if there is no visible swelling present. I remember my hand feeling puffy and tight, as if it were swollen. It was uncomfortable and made it difficult to move my fingers freely.

It’s important to note that these symptoms may vary from person to person, and some individuals may experience more severe symptoms than others. Additionally, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

To summarize, the symptoms of carpal tunnel in the upper arm can include numbness, tingling, weakness, pain, and a sensation of swelling in the hand and arm. These symptoms can be quite debilitating and interfere with daily activities. If you suspect you may have carpal tunnel, it is important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.