Question
Dear Dr O'Brien, I have been experiencing back and neck pain (and stiffness of the neck) for over 12 months now, and I am very concerned as the pain is getting much worse.

I have seen different doctors at my surgery, and they are all telling me that it sounds like the symptoms are caused by stress.

The pain starts between my shoulder blade, on the left hand side of my back and works its way up to my neck. The pain in my neck is a sharp pain, and it hurts when I try to turn my neck, or move my head up and down.

When I say pain, its feels like someone is pinching me. It really hurts.

The pain between my shoulder blades never goes away.

I am also experiencing pins and needles down the lefthand side of my body, particularly in my left arm and leg. I can't sleep at night because I can't get into a comfortable position.

My doctor gave me tablets to relax my muscles, but they havent helped. So now he is going to send me to see a physiotherapist.

But the doctor is still insisting that the symptoms are caused by stress, but I believe it is something more serious.

How can the doctor possibly know what it wrong with me,without giving me an xray, scan or examination.

Do you think that the physiotherapist will listen to me, or will he/she have to treat me for the symptoms that the doctor has told them?

I really need to get this sorted out quickly, as the pain is getting worse, and its stopping me from getting on with my life.


Donna Mills (UK)  

Answer
Hello Donna,

    You may want to see a doctor of chiropractic.  Doctors of chiropractic specialize in the biomechanics of the spine and body.  Chiropractors perform detailed exams and are able to find out exactly what is causing the condition.  If you have been experiencing these conditions for a year a MRI of the affected area should be done.  The doctor of chiropractic will be able to order for you.  Most doctors of chiropractic are also licensed physical therapists (in the US not sure about the UK).

Have a great day,
Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.