Question
QUESTION: I have been having some strange things happening to me like my hands curling, numerous falls, my skin seems like it has too much feeling like cold things burn, hot stuff itches. My muscles jump in different places, Im getting electric shocks through my body, and terrible chest pains. I can barely write with a pen and my arms ache so badly but my right arm pain is almost unbearable. I got my mri results today and this is the two things that stand out and I was wondering if this could be the cause.

C6-7: Disk desiccation with loss of disc space height and endplate spondylosis. There is a posterior central/right central herniation of the subligamentous protrusion type extending into the right intervetebral neural foramen. The disc herniation measures approximately 6x20 mm (ap transverse) compressing the cord centrally and to the right of the midline with compression of the exiting right c7 nerve root asd well. There is no displacement of the cord, but there is flattening of the ventral surface, and the central canal is narrowed to 5mm in midsagital plane. The left intervertebral neural foramen remains patent.

Sagital images suggest that there may be a focal area of myelomalacia within the cord but this may be due to pulsation, measuring 8mm in craniocaudal dimension. This is not confirmed on axial images. The cord is otherwise normal.

How serious is this and can I go to a chiropractor or get the injections, or something to help because I don't think I would want a surgery if it was needed. I have an appointment with my doctor to review this next week but I picked up the report today.


ANSWER: First, definitely keep your appointment with the doctor next week, it is easier to discuss these findings in person, and if you don't like what the doctor says, don't hesitate to get a second and even third opinions.  There is definitely something neurological going on, whether it is coming from the C6-7 disc that is compressing on the spinal cord and nerve root, or if there is something more.  I don't know if you were in an accident or what to cause such injury, but if you were in a accident than I would look into a head Cat-scan to rule-out any brain injury.  Some of the neurologic symptoms you are experiencing could be coming from the brain.  Talk to your doctor about everything possible next week and if you have any other questions or concerns before or after that, please email me.

Dr. Starbuck

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: What is the normal size of the central cord? and also is a 6x20mm herniation bad? I can only sit here for a few mins at a time as the pain is constant so I cannot take a lot of time to research. I appreciate everything and Thank-you again.

Answer
I am sorry but I could not find the normal size of the spinal cord and I have never seen the designation of a herniation of 6x20mm.  As to the size it is roughly the size of your thumb, but I know that doesn't give you an exact measurement.

Dr. Starbuck