A 34-year-old male asked:
Can a herniated disk in the low back area cause numbness and tingling in the arms and hands? mri of neck was neg, no abnormalities shown.
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Carol Van der Harstanswered
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 37 years experience
No: Herniated disc of the low back can cause numbness and tingling in one leg (rarely both), but not in the arms. 25% of americans have herniated disc in the lumbar spine without any symptoms. Seek the help of a rehabilitation physician who can sort out the nerve, muscle and soft tissue problems that can produce your symptoms.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. John Curtisanswered
- Select Specialities - 30 years experience
No: The nerves to your arms cannot be affected by a disc problem below them. A peripheral nerve entrapment would be more likely. These include carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome and the uncommon posterior interosseous nerve (pin) syndrome. A physical exam may be all that's needed to identify your diagnosis. You may also need nerve conduction tests.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Aug 28, 2013
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