Question
I recently woke up with a stiff neck. No trauma involved. Been to a doctor and orthopedic surgeon. My problem is I can't lift my left ARM above my shoulder, or in front. X-rays show no tears in rotator cuff. I'm not in a lot of pain but more of a discomfort level. It has been a month now and there is no improvement. I have hardly any bicep muscle, but lower ARM is fine. No numbness or tingling. Can you please offer some advice?

Answer
Dear Scott,

There are several things that you might consider in your situation. First of all, you indicate that the x-rays don't show any tears in the rotator cuff.  X-rays cannot show rotator cuff injuries or tears. X-rays only show bones, and that is about it.  You need to consider having an MRI taken of the shoulder.  This will help to rule in/out labrum, biceps tendons, rotator cuff injuries, etc.

You might also, if you think that the neck is involved, consider an MRI of the cervical spine. The reason why is that nerves, as you mentioned in your subject line, exit out of the cervical spine and extend into the arm, where they control skin sensations and arm muscles.  This is important because of the neck stiffness that you feel.

If you are still having difficulties making decisions about what to do, go and see a neurologist for a consultation and examination.  It is important to find the cause of your wasting of the arm muscles.

Good luck Scott. I hope that you can find the answers that you are seeking for.

Keith Biggs, DC
http://www.eastmesachiropractor.com