Question
Hi Dr. Dolan,
I have been having this discomfort of my skin. It feels like I have fiber glass splinters in my skin. I get it all the way down my left leg onto my ankle and my lower back on my arms and in other places as well. It hurts when I touch it or anything rubs against it ( pants , shirts ). It is not red or pink and is not hot to the touch.
I would love to hear you input.
Thank you so much for your time.
Tiana

Answer
Dear Tiana,

This is a tough question, and probably why it was referred to the question pool instead of answered by Dr. Dolan.

I first took a look at your question last night, and passed it by without responding, but it bothered me, so I decided that you deserved at least a response.  

Hypersensitivity of the skin, or abnormal sensations can be difficult to track down.  Here are a couple of the thoughts that I have had over the past several hours.

1) Perhaps a neurologist would be the pathway for you to get a better answer. A neurologist specializes in nerve functions and disease. There are diseases that can attack the nervous system that can cause symptoms down the limbs and in the trunk.

2) Another possible direction for you to get answers would be through a dermatologist, or skin specialist, though this makes less sense to me than the neurologist pathway.  Sometimes, however, an infection can spread through the skin. I would typically expect to see, however, some type of rash and itching and possibly redness, which you claim not to have.

3) Are you taking any B vitamins? Excessive doses of Niacin, for example, can cause a burning sensation of the skin. This is benign, and it is also something that only lasts for about a half an our or so. If, however, you are taking a heavy daily dosage, you might experience this sensation more consistently. This type of skin irritation, however, is usually associated with a burn and itch, and some redness.

4) If this were a condition related to the spine, (something that a chiropractor could help you with) typically the symptoms are associated with a complaint of spinal pain or injury. Also, the symptoms would typically be limited to only one limb, or maybe the two upper arms or just the two lower legs.  I suppose that a joint problem in the neck could cause symptoms in the arms and legs, but from what you describe, I just don't think that this is a good explanation of your symptoms and troubles.  Even if your symptoms are due to a problem in your neck, since the symptoms appear to be very wide spread, a neurologist is still probably your best treatment pathway.

In summery, I believe that your best initial action would be to consult an MD Neurologist for a good evaluation to rule in or rule out a nerve or brain issue.  If that turns out to be negative, a return to an Internal Medicine Specialist for a diagnostic work-up would be in order.

Tiana, It is very difficult to give good solid medical advise over the Internet with only a limited amount of data, but I certainly hope that this answer at least gives you some ideas of things to try. Good luck with your condition, and don't give up seeking for answers! It might take a few doctors before you find an answer.

Dr. Biggs