[betterware]

#8181

There are some reversal of cervical lordosis on the sagittal images consistent with muscle spasm.Minor to moderate degenerative change identified within the C5-C6 disc space with a minor broad based central and left sided disc bulging at this level without cord compression or nerve root compression. Moderate degenerative change with some narrowing of vertical height of disc space at C6-C7. There is some minor to moderate broad based disc bulging centrally and extending to the right and left of midline at this level without cord compression.Minor bilateral posterior uncovertebral osteophyte formation at this level. there is some loss of lordosis in the distal thoracic and upper lumbar spine consistent with muscle spasm. My symptoms are stiffness of neck, mobility restricted, aching pains down both my arms, with difficulty raising arms above my head for a period of time, eg. washing my hair. Could you please tell me what my scan means, and what I can do to help ease the pain. Thank you so much

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#8188

You have moderate degenerative disc disease in the lower cervical spine. This is quite common and by itself does not mean anything. There is no neurological compression either of the spinal cord or nerve roots according to this report.

Stiffness of the neck could be related to this degenerative disc disease but “aching pains down both my arms, with difficulty raising arms above my head for a period of time, eg. washing my hair” does not fit with nerve root compression. These symptoms do fit however with thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) where the nerves get caught in the shoulders when you lift your arms up. I have not yet written a section on this syndrome so you will need to search the internet for a description.

You need a good diagnostician and if you are diagnosed with TOS, a good therapist.

Dr. Corenman

PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
 
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.

[betterware]

#8226

Thank you for your reply. You say its quiet common, I am just wondering because I am only 33 years old, would that be considered still quiet common among my age group? I never suffered with back or neck problems until an accident over a year ago.

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#8243

TOS (thoracic outlet syndrome) is common and can be related to genetics, trauma, occupation and extra-curricular activities. TOS is normally seen in a younger population.

Dr. Corenman

PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
 
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.

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