Numbness Along the Spine: Causes and Treatment Options

The entire muscle on the right side of the spine is "numb."

The following areas have been experiencing numbness for the past 1-2 months: 1.
The muscle on the right side of the spine - starting from the shoulder and extending down to the right hip, including the outer side of the right hip.
2.
The outer side of the right thigh (approximately where the big toe touches when standing straight, extending down in a straight line to just above the knee).
3.
The outer edge of the posterior half of the right foot's sole.
4.
The area of the palm beneath the middle three fingers of the right hand.

I am unsure if the following factors are related to my condition, but I provide them for the physician's reference: 1.
X-rays show pelvic deformity (thicker on the left, thinner on the right, with asymmetrical sizes on both sides) and spinal scoliosis.
2.
For over thirty years, aside from being informed by a physician about the wear in the left hip joint requiring replacement surgery, I have had no other issues besides pain in the left hip joint during walking, sitting, or lying down.
3.
Recently, I have been training the strength of my left leg and stretching (performing a high kneeling position with the left knee at 90 degrees while kneeling on the right knee).
I would like to ask the physician: 1.
What could be the cause of the new numbness symptoms, and how should it be treated? 2.
Is pelvic deformity reversible and can it return to normal? If I strengthen the weaker side through exercise, once the muscle strength is balanced between both sides, can this help realign the pelvis and subsequently correct the spine?

Athena, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/01/19

Dr. Xu Zhenrong reply Rehabilitation

Hello Athena readers, peripheral nerve compression can lead to symptoms such as pain, tingling, or burning sensations, and may sometimes be accompanied by muscle atrophy and the absence of tendon reflexes.
The sensations of pain and tingling are subjective experiences that can vary from person to person, while muscle strength and tendon reflexes are objective findings in neurological examinations.
Therefore, in addition to assessing pain and tingling, it is important to examine other neurological symptoms and the distribution of these sensations.
Furthermore, pelvic deformities are likely to represent irreversible anatomical changes that cannot be altered.
It is recommended that you visit a nearby outpatient clinic for evaluation by relevant specialties (orthopedics, neurology, or rehabilitation medicine) to identify the underlying cause for further treatment, management, or prevention of further deterioration.
Best wishes for your health from the Rehabilitation Department of Taipei Hospital, Department of Health.

Reply Date: 2007/01/19

More Info

Understanding numbness along the spine can be a complex issue, particularly when it involves multiple areas of the body, as you have described. The symptoms you are experiencing—numbness along the right side of your spine, extending from your shoulder down to your right hip, as well as numbness in your right thigh, foot, and hand—suggest that there may be a neurological component to your condition.

Possible Causes of Numbness
1. Nerve Compression: The most common cause of numbness in the areas you described is nerve compression. This can occur due to herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other structural abnormalities in the spine. Given your history of spinal curvature (scoliosis) and pelvic asymmetry, it is possible that these structural changes are contributing to nerve compression.

2. Muscle Imbalance: The asymmetry in your pelvis and the history of hip joint issues may lead to muscle imbalances. These imbalances can affect how your body distributes weight and can lead to additional strain on certain muscles and nerves, potentially causing numbness.

3. Circulatory Issues: Although less common, circulatory problems can also lead to numbness. If blood flow to certain areas is restricted, it can cause sensations of numbness or tingling.

4. Underlying Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or vitamin deficiencies (like B12 deficiency) can also lead to numbness. However, your symptoms seem more localized to structural issues based on your description.

Treatment Options
1. Physical Therapy: Engaging in a structured physical therapy program can help address muscle imbalances and improve strength and flexibility. A physical therapist can design a program tailored to your specific needs, focusing on strengthening the weaker side and improving overall posture.

2. Chiropractic Care: Given your history of spinal issues, chiropractic adjustments may help realign your spine and pelvis, potentially relieving pressure on the nerves.

3. Medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation. If nerve pain is significant, medications such as gabapentin or pregabalin may be prescribed.

4. Surgical Options: If conservative treatments fail and there is significant nerve compression, surgical options may be considered. This could involve decompression surgery or corrective surgery for structural issues.

5. Exercise and Strength Training: As you mentioned, strengthening the left leg and improving overall muscle balance can be beneficial. Focus on exercises that promote symmetry and stability in the pelvis and spine.

Reversibility of Pelvic Deformity
Regarding your question about the reversibility of pelvic deformity, it is important to note that while some structural changes may be improved with targeted exercise and therapy, complete reversal may not always be possible, especially if there has been significant degeneration or deformity over time. However, improving muscle strength and balance can lead to better alignment and function, which may alleviate some of the symptoms you are experiencing.

Conclusion
In summary, the numbness you are experiencing is likely related to a combination of nerve compression due to structural issues in your spine and pelvis, as well as muscle imbalances. A comprehensive treatment approach that includes physical therapy, possibly chiropractic care, and targeted exercises will be essential in managing your symptoms. It is crucial to work closely with healthcare professionals who can monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. If symptoms persist or worsen, further imaging studies may be warranted to assess for any new developments.

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