Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 7/14/2008

Question
I went for a massage (by a licensed therapist) and she moved my neck in a way that I had not ever had my neck moved before and it was very uncomfortable and 2 days later I lost the feeling in my left index finger, partially in my left thumb and middle finger. I have experienced severe pain in my upper back and neck along with excrutiating stabbing pain in my upper forearm. I am nervous that this is permanent. I went to a Neurologist and I am awaiting the results of an MRI and I have an EMG scheduled a couple weeks from now. Have you heard of anything like this before? Could the movement the massage therapist did cause this? I have never had neck pain before and I didn't do anything to jar it.

Answer
It is possible that what she did may have caused a problem.   Massage therapists are not typically trained in manipulation of the spine; they should only be dealing with muscular conditions.  However, without being able to personally do an exam, it is a little hard to diagnose over the internet.