HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Do Numbness And Stiffness In The Back And Chest Post Car Accident, Require Medical Attention?

default
Posted on Thu, 23 Nov 2023
Question: I am concerned. Ever since a minor car accident, my neck and upper back/ front chest area have been ver stiff despite getting multiple deep tissue massages. Over the last couple of days I have been starting to have tingling and numbness in my arms. I think they are probably related. I do not have a primary doc to as I have never had any health issues. I feel that I need to see a doctor, but unsure where to start. I watch far too many medical dramas... And have a feeling going straight to the ER would probably not be the best course of action . Would love guidance on who to see for these symptoms
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (59 minutes later)
Brief Answer:

Start with a cervical spine MRI.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

As a Neurosurgeon at a national trauma centre, I see often patients who sustained minor car accidents and presented with symptoms similar to yours and, yes, there may be a relationship between the accident and your symptoms.

Your condition needs definitely an evaluation by a spine Specialist/Neurosurgeon and an MRI to assess any herniated disc disease, spinal cord contusion, instability of your cervical spine.

On the other hand, I don't see a reason to go to the ER.

Treatment depends on the diagnosis.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Erion Spaho, Neurologist, Surgical
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho

Neurologist, Surgical

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 4493 Questions

Ask me a question
premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Ask an Orthopaedic Surgeon
Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
backtotop2
Do Numbness And Stiffness In The Back And Chest Post Car Accident, Require Medical Attention?

Brief Answer: Start with a cervical spine MRI. Detailed Answer: Hello, As a Neurosurgeon at a national trauma centre, I see often patients who sustained minor car accidents and presented with symptoms similar to yours and, yes, there may be a relationship between the accident and your symptoms. Your condition needs definitely an evaluation by a spine Specialist/Neurosurgeon and an MRI to assess any herniated disc disease, spinal cord contusion, instability of your cervical spine. On the other hand, I don't see a reason to go to the ER. Treatment depends on the diagnosis. Hope I have answered your query. Take care Regards, Dr Erion Spaho, Neurologist, Surgical