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Numbness in Neck
Question:
Dear TAI Experts:
Recently I have experienced periodic left side neck numbness. No pain. It feels as though there were hair or something on my neck, but nothing is there. I had an EMG recently that stated I have a very mild case of C5-6 radiculapathy … could that be responsible?
Answer:
Without doing and examination it’s not possible for me to comment on your condition specifically. I can say that in general, it is possible for a problem at C5,6 to produce left neck numbness, though it is even more likely to produce left shoulder and arm symptoms. An EMG alone cannot in itself diagnose symptoms of nerve compression coming from the spine, since nerves can be compressed in more than one location. However, when nerves are compressed in the spine, symptoms of numbness from a radiculopathy stemming from C5-6 will typically present far away from the neck in the tip of the thumb and outside of the shoulder first. If the numbness continues, it may be helpful to see a Physical Therapist who can evaluate the mobility of the neck and function of the nerves and muscles.
Laura Evans PT, DPT
Numbness in Neck
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