Subscribe To This Site
Numbness in arms and upper back.
by Sharon
First let me apologise for any gramatical error you might find as English is a second language to me. I have been feeling weak in my arms and also numbness, it feels like I do not have proper circulation. My upper back/lower neck area feels very strange, I don't know how to explain the sensation that comes and goes. It's more noticable as I was walking to work this morning and now sitting at my desk typing this letter. I will not say that its painful but uncomfortable, and I find holding objects as small as my phone in my hands tire them out really quickly, and I have to rub my arms and hands to get the feeling of numbness out. I wear a 36 F bra and I find that at times the strap digs into my shoulders and makes me very uncomfortable. I've been told that this can also play a role in the problems I am currently having. My doctor has given me medication against inflammation and vitamins. I would appreciate your advice as my doctor is a general practitioner. He actually ask me if I was pregnant which I thought was very strange. Hello Sharon, Firstly a word of congratulations. Your English is a good deal better than letters coming from a certain first world country that shall remain nameless! Yes, your bra straps could well be a large part of the problem. Both the nerves and the arteries to your arms exit from the neck and pass to the arms just below where those straps are digging into your shoulders. Try a bra that gives support around the back only, with no shoulder straps. Or be modern for a week, and see if that makes a difference. I'm not into cosmetic surgery, but over the years I've heard from women again and again what a relief a breast-reduction can be. But before that, it is a fairly radical step, I good thorough examination of your spine I think is indicated. And if there are any "hard neurological signs" - real measurable numbness, change of reflex, weakness in your hands or arms - I think an MRI is indicated. If raising your arms makes them very tired, then one thinks of a "Thoracic Outlet Syndrome" caused by a subluxated first rib, or tight scalene muscles affecting the artery and nerves to your arms. Punch that term into the Search this site at C-H for more info. The classic test is Adson's test but it's a very tricky test to administer objectively. There are many false positives. A positive test which turns out to be insignificant. If there are any chiropractors in the Seychelles - one of the countries I've always dreamed of visiting, but out of the financial reach for most citizens of this world! - I would strong suggest a consultation for an opinion. I hope this contributes. Dr B |
