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.

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.

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.