Question
QUESTION: I have pain starting in my spine and splintering down in my shoulders.  My arms go numb and if I use them alot my neck, shoulders and head hurt.  Im 48 and the pain gets worse the older I get.  Can you tell me what kind of test I should have and what kind of physician I need to see.
Thanks,

ANSWER: Hi Dot-

This is not uncommon, though it's not any fun. Probably you're having a bit of arthritis starting to do weird things in your back.

Your family physician should be familiar with your symptoms and the bone-y growth (if it is arthritis) can be seen on a regular x-ray. Likely your doc will order an xray or a MRI for you, and if there's anything unusual about it wil recommend a neurologist.

Hope that helps, and good luck!
leslie

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Leslie,
Thank you for your first response.  I did have an MRI. It reads:
1.  Straightening of normal lordotic curvature
2.  Disc space narrowing, especially at C4-5 with mild central disc bulge and also mild narrowing at C5-6 with a diffuse disc bulge at this level.
And my question is would the findings cause the pain that I am having?  I will following up with my physician but I would like to have your opinion.
Thanks


Answer
hi Dot-

yes, that sure would cause the symptoms you're having. the disc space narrowing squishes the disc out of its usual space (um.. like if you squeeze a water balloon, yes?)- this bulge presses on the nerve. and c4-5-6 are al right between your shoulder blades where the nerves for your arms come out.

as for the 'loss of lordotic curvature'... Lordosis is the normal curve of your spine from front to back, if that makes sense. too much lordosis is like a 'sway-backed' person, yes? it can cause or worsen the disc problem you're having
people sometimes lose this curve as they age- it is often helped by strengthening the abdominal muscles
(though with the bulging discs, do talk to your doc first)

hope that helps!
good luck
leslie