Lhermitte's sign is an electric shock-like feeling that runs down your spine from top to bottom. You may find it continues into your arms and legs. It can be a sign of multiple sclerosis, but also happens in other conditions. Some people describe an odd buzzing feeling. It gives you a sudden jolt on the back of your neck and runs down your spine.
This sensation may move into your arms and legs and sometimes onto fingers and toes. It usually only lasts a few seconds but can be very intense.
It is not life-threatening. Like many of these, Lhermitte's sign may come and go over time. She describes the shock, a taser-like feeling and the years of learning to manage it. It usually happens when you bend your head towards your chest for example when you have a haircut.
Your damaged nerves, which are no longer fully protected by their myelin sheath, try to relay this action to your brain but it causes confusion. This can mean your brain interprets the message as pain even though there is no physical reason. If you've not been diagnosed with MS, you should consult a health professional to investigate why you are experiencing this sensation.
I kept getting these weird like electric shocks from my head when I would tilt my head forward. It felt like someone was electrocuting me, sort of going all the way from the top of my spine down to the bottom of my feet.
