Question
I have been told by a chiropractor that I have a weak neck and my muscles in my shoulders go into spasm to protect it. This causes extreme pain and the muscles in my shoulderblade can be felt as tight knots. Nothing relieves the pain, diclofenic, diazepam, massage or chiro treatment. She has also told me that my ribs are slightly out and puts them back when I see her. I dont know if its acute myofascitis which ahs been mentioned by a consultant. Will a steroid injection help? And why does this keep happening? It lasts for about 3 months. I need help and expert advice.

Answer
Lesley,
The symptoms you describe are textbook cervical myositis.It is quite possible that you have some muscle weakness probably due to fatigue from constant spasm. When dealing with this problem your chiropractor is having to deal with the par vertebral musculature or the muscles that surround the spine especially neck and upper back. In addition your chiropractor has to deal with where the muscles attach which is to the shoulder spine and upper back.

If the oral meds are not effective you might consider spinal injections as well as manipulation under anesthesia. This is manipulation while under twilight anesthesia. For more information go to www.phoenixmanipulationunderanesthesia.com .

I would say keep attending with your chiropractor and continue to give her feedback as you go. A good 6-8 week period of time and you should be feeling very much improved.

Hope this helps your medical decision making process. If you need further questions answered please ask away!!!
Dr John Q Quackenbush
www.drqdc.com
Phoenix Chiropractic Physician