Body Tremors: Possible Causes and Connections to Scoliosis - Neurology

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Body tremors


Hello Doctor: For the past six months, I have been experiencing a pulsating sensation on the upper right side of my body.
I can feel it by touch, and sometimes it feels not only like a pulsation but also like rolling or shifting.
Occasionally, I also experience numbness in areas including the side of my breast, armpit, axillary tissue, shoulder blade, and multiple ribs.
I would like to ask what possible causes this could be? (I have a 26-degree scoliosis with a right curve; I wonder if this is related.)

Nìmíng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/12

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology


Hello, based on your description, we should first consider the possibility of spinal nerve compression.
The uncomfortable sensations you are experiencing, such as crawling, pain, itching, and tingling, are indicative of this condition.
Typically, clinical judgment is sufficient for diagnosis; however, if further testing is needed, the commonly used methods are nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG).
Nerve conduction studies can measure the speed of electrical signals in specific nerves, and when a nerve is compressed or entrapped, the conduction velocity will slow down.
I recommend that you consult a neurologist to discuss testing and treatment options.
Wishing you good health and well-being.
Dr.
Jiang from the Department of Neurology at Taoyuan Hospital is concerned about you.

Reply Date: 2021/02/12

More Info


Hello! Thank you for sharing your symptoms with me. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing a range of sensations, including tremors, rolling feelings, and numbness, primarily on the right side of your upper body. You also mentioned having scoliosis with a 26-degree right curvature, which could potentially be related to your symptoms.

Firstly, let's discuss the possible causes of the sensations you are experiencing. Tremors or involuntary movements can arise from various conditions, including neurological disorders, muscle spasms, or even anxiety. In your case, given the specific areas affected (such as the breast area, armpit, and shoulder blade), it is essential to consider the possibility of nerve involvement. Conditions like thoracic outlet syndrome, where nerves or blood vessels are compressed in the area between your collarbone and first rib, could lead to sensations of tingling, numbness, or even tremors in the upper body.

Additionally, your scoliosis may play a role in your symptoms. Scoliosis can lead to uneven distribution of muscle tension and strain on the spine and surrounding structures. This unevenness can cause muscle spasms or overactivity in certain areas, potentially leading to the sensations you describe. The curvature of the spine may also affect the nerves that exit the spinal column, leading to abnormal sensations in the areas you mentioned.

Another possibility is that you may be experiencing myofascial pain syndrome, a condition characterized by muscle pain and the presence of trigger points. These trigger points can cause referred pain and abnormal sensations in various parts of the body. The stress and strain on your muscles due to scoliosis could contribute to the development of these trigger points.

It is also worth considering psychological factors. Anxiety and stress can manifest physically, leading to muscle tension and involuntary movements. If you have been under increased stress, this could exacerbate your symptoms.

To address your concerns, I recommend the following steps:
1. Consult a Specialist: It would be beneficial to see a neurologist or a specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation. They can perform a thorough examination, including neurological assessments, to determine if there is any nerve involvement or other underlying conditions.

2. Imaging Studies: Depending on the findings from your initial consultation, your doctor may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to assess the condition of your spine and surrounding structures.

3. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy may help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with scoliosis. A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting your spine and improve flexibility, which may reduce the abnormal sensations you are experiencing.

4. Stress Management: If anxiety or stress is contributing to your symptoms, consider exploring stress management techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or counseling.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: Pay attention to your posture and ergonomics, especially if you spend long periods sitting or working at a computer. Proper posture can help reduce strain on your spine and surrounding muscles.

In conclusion, while your scoliosis may be a contributing factor to the sensations you are experiencing, it is essential to explore other potential causes, including nerve involvement and muscle-related issues. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional will help clarify the situation and guide you toward appropriate treatment options. Please take care, and I hope you find relief soon!

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