Question
Hello Dr (Mr?) Arnone

I was wondering if you could help me shed some light on a sort-of (!) problem I am having. I have recently taken up jogging to help my cardio and help get my weight down, and all is going well ( I have been gently building up through a system of 3min jog, 2min walk, 4min jog, 2min walk etc til I'm now at about 15min jog - Hooray!)The only problem is, after my cooldown and stretches, when I lean my head forward - I experience quite strong "tingles" down my lower spinal cord to my tailbone and through down to my feet. Not pain exactly but quite uncomfortable and the "tingles"/electric-shock sort-of-feeling (sorry!! - I can't think how better to explain it!!) sometimes stays for quite a while if I bump my legs or bum later on. Sorry I haven't explained this very well, but any advice you could give me would be greatly appreciated, particularly if it is something I should have checked out. Many thanks for your time and consideration, and wishing you a very Happy Christmas and New Year.

Many thanks,
Jen Gregory-Lyon

Answer
Jen,
Anytime that a person experiences "tingles" or more importantly "electric shock sensations"  it is a nervous system condition.  And being that I am a nervous system doctor, it was perfect that you chose me to ask this question.  Since this occurs mainly when you flex your head down, it proves that you have an upper cervical problem and most likely an upper cervical subluxation.  This is not something that you want to leave alone, but rather you should have checked out by an expert immediately.  There is also a test for multiple sclerosis called Termites sign which involves laying down and flexing the neck forward, a positive for this sign is the electric shock sensations running down your spine.  I am not saying that you have MS, but I am saying that you have an upper cervical problem that needs to be addressed.  
If you would like help in locating a good upper cervical doctor, please write back with your town and state, including the nearest big city to you.   I will do my best to locate a qualified doctor for you.

Yours in Best Health,
Dr Robert Arnone
711 Old Ballas Road Suite 104
St Louis, MO, 63141
314.995.5719
www.GetWellSTL.com