Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 7/31/2009

Question
Hi Dr. Newhart:
I have been doing weight lifting at the gym and I have noticed neck pain on the left side of my neck and have had the popping. What has bothered me the most is when I'm sleeping and have my hands next to my pillow or under my pillow, I wake up with tingling feeling in my left ring and pinky finger. I notice if I sleep with my hands down by my side I don't get this tingling feeling. What is this and should I be concerned? Thank you.

Answer
When you sleep in the position you describe, the muscles can put pressure on the nerves that lead to the arm (brachial plexus).  Also, if you noticed a "popping" sensation, something may have misaligned, causing pressure on the nerves that lead to the outside edge of the hand (C8 nerve root).  A good chiropractor should be able to assess and treat it, and also decide if it is a problem that should need further medical care.