Joe A Shaw PA-C - 8/4/2008

Question
While running a month ago (I had just started a serious running exercise routine), I felt a "twinge" down my left arm, like hitting my funny bone. Since then I have experienced a great deal of tension in both triceps, forearms and wrists (with some tightness in my hands), as well as slightly sore elbows. Early on I also had some tension headaches and a sore neck. For the last two weeks, symptoms have reduced to forearm and wrist tension. My doctor (and my own research) suggest a herniated disk (x-ray results pending). What options do I have for the alleviation of the symptoms of this injury while I await diagnosis, healing or teatment?
>Nick, 28 years old, 190 pounds

Answer
Nick,
Xrays are okay..but won't tell you a whole lot in this case esp since you are 28..you really shouldn't have a lot of degenerative changes or arthritis in the spine or if you do..it is abnormal. Also xrays don't show you discs etc..

You need to get an MRI of the neck and this will almost defentively tell you whether you have a disc problem. Anything short of a large rupture (not just bulging) I would not advise surgery until you have tried NSAIDs, PT, traction,etc..and time at least 6 mos, and a second opinion. You also need to get NCS/EMG of both arms by a neurologist or specialist