Question
Hi there,

After experiencing terrible pain in my shoulder area and then thumbness in my middle, index and thumb I went to the doctor who prescribed an MRI.

The MRI report identified a small paracentral posterior herniated disc 2.5 .. in AP dimension and 5 mm in transverse with minimal compression on the right side of the spinal cord.

the c6-c7 level, a posterolateral hernoated disc is notes on right measuring 3.5 mm in AP dimension and 1 cm in transverse dimension and slightly compresses the spinal cord.

I am experiencing weakness in my right arm and the doctor performed an EMG and said the results were consistent with the MRI.

Can you interpret?

thanks!

Answer
hi jen

the spinal cord carries sensory and movement neurons, yes? so when the disc- spongey thing between vertebrae- bulges out and pokes into the cord, it disrupts those neurons

this is what you have- the discs mentioned are pushing on the nerves as they leave the cord, cutting off some of the information (some muscles now don't respond, making your arm weak, etc)

there are various ways to solve your situation, which you can discuss with your doc

hope that helps
good luck
leslie