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Unexpected Signs You Might Be Having Spine Issues

June 12, 2025 | Reading Time: 2 minutes
Lady holding her hand and looking at it

Spine issues are common health concerns that affect millions of people worldwide. While most individuals associate these problems with symptoms like back pain or limited mobility, there are several other signs that might make you say, ‘wow, I had no idea that could be related to a spinal issue!’

Recognizing these unexpected signs can help you seek timely medical attention and prevent further complications. Here are a few things to look for:

Numbness or Tingling in Extremities

While it’s common to associate numbness or tingling with issues in the limbs themselves, such sensations can also result from spinal problems. Conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or nerve compression can cause radiating pain, numbness, or tingling sensations that travel from the back down into the arms, legs, hands, or feet. Numbness in your big toe can be a sign of a spinal issue, too. Different nerves go to different places, so knowing exactly which toe is numb can help identify which nerve might be pinched. 

Burning Sensations in Legs and Weakness of Extremities

Certain back or spine conditions can cause weakness in your hands, fingers, and other extremities, and lead to a burning sensation in the back of your legs. If you notice unexplained fluctuations with the agility of your fingers or hands, it could be related to an underlying spinal issue. For instance, not being able to button a shirt, pick up a coin, pick up cards, or use a fork and knife with coordination could indicate an issue with the nerves in your spine. These movements don’t look like tremors but rather a lack of coordination and an inability to make your fingers or hands work as they should.

Spastic Gait or Trouble Walking

A spastic gait or trouble walking is a little more obvious than the other signs listed above. Any sudden or noticeable changes over time in how you walk or your gait could indicate something is going on with your spine and it’s time to seek medical attention.


If you experience any of these unusual signs persistently without an obvious cause, or you have concerns about your spinal health, seek medical attention. Usually, an MRI can determine if there are any spine issues. Early detection and intervention can help mitigate potential complications and promote overall well-being.

Neurosurgeon, Dr. Stephen Sandwell

Dr. Stephen Sandwell is a board-certified Neurosurgeon at Huntsville Hospital Spine & Neuro Center. He travels to Florence to see patients at one of our satellite clinics, along with seeing patients in Huntsville.

If you have back pain or any of the symptoms listed above, it’s time to make a same-day appointment with a physician assistant at Spine & Neuro. Call (256) 533-1600 to make a same-day appointment in Huntsville or Madison today.

Click here to learn more about Huntsville Hospital’s Spine & Neuro Center and our providers.