Question
Hi,

I have been having pain on my left arm(especially at night, I woke up in pain) and numb hand throughout the day for eight days now. I started a new job as a mechanic trainee and I thought that the discomfort was due to the use of hand tools and lifting heavy objects. I went to the doctor who told me it must be a muscle on the back of my neck causing it (i don't have a pain on my neck although i had issues with this muscle in the past).
He gave me antiinflammatory pills to take for seven days but I do not feel that they help. It has been four days now that I have been taking them and no result. I think the problem feels worst than before since I have nearly lost the feeling of touch on my left hand (they both are numb though).

Any help will be appreciated since I fear that the back muscle is not the issue.

Thank you

Answer
Hello Zoe,


    You may have a nerve impingement.  This could be coming from the neck or impinged by the tight muscle (bilateral most likely a irritated disc in the neck).  A proper exam will be able to determine this.  A MRI of the neck and shoulder would be able to determine the exact cause of your symptoms, this would be a good place to start then a treatment plan can be established.  You may want to see a Doctor of Chiropractic as they will be able to perform a orthopedic exam to determine if a MRI is needed.

Have a great day,

Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.