What causes the sudden onset of numbness in the arms?
Patient: A few days ago, I had a sudden numbness come over my arms while I was unloading laundry from the dryer. About 15-20 minutes ago the same thing happened. I had just gotten off the couch and walked into the kitchen to get my iPad. When I went to sit down, the same sensation happened. This time i also felt it across my left side back area. It s never happened befor these two incidents Doctor: Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.  I passed carefully through your question and would explain that your symptoms could be related to a cervical spine disorder (bulging disc). For this reason, I recommend consulting with your attending physician for a physical exam, a cervical spine X ray study and nerve conduction studies. A cervical spine MRI study may be needed.   Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.