Question
QUESTION: MRI results: At C4/C5 there is a central, left paracentral, and foraminal disc herniation of the protusion type that moderately narrows the left neural foramen with expected impingement of the exiting left C5 nerve root.  History: neck pain for nearly 20 months. Doctors have felt is was related only to stress/anxiety from a blood clot in my head (saggittal sinus thrombosis) November of 2005.  Finally, was sent for physical therapy and the therapist realized SOON that something else was going on.  After 3 weeks, he sent his study back to my doctor and she finally ordered an MRI cervical/spine.  Can you tell me what this means and whether the blood clot had anything to do with what has happened to my neck?  I've had neck pain ever since the blood clot (at first had TONS of pressure in the back of my head).  Thank you.  Liz

ANSWER: Hi Liz,

The pain in your neck can have more than one source, more than likely it is from the C5 nerve root. There is definitely compression on the left side, so it needs to be decompressed. The good news is that most lesions can be helped with towel traction. Most D.C.'s are well schooled in this; a home traction kit is also strongly recommended. Surgery is obviously the last resort, it carries high risk and poor outcomes.

If you need a referral, I will be happy to help,

Dr. Timothy Durnin
drs.chiroweb.com

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

QUESTION: I live in Ohio - pretty much an hours drive from Columbus, Cincinnati and Dayton.  I've doctored mostly local (within 15 miles or so of my house)but have seriously considered going to a larger city that might have better care. If you could give me any referral in the above mentioned areas, I would appreciate it.  I want to get better without surgery - hoping that the 20 months period hasn't caused any serious problems.  Thanks again - Liz

Answer
Hi Liz,

I certainly will help you, first, check this link for anyone certified in your area. If you have no luck, I will need to call physicians in the area and find you one. This can take a few days since doctors can be hard to reach. Let's hope someone is listed nearby.:)


http://www.coxtechnic.com/homepage.asp



Dr. Timothy Durnin
drs.chiroweb.com