It is always a possibility that the C5-6 level have developed more cord compression. This is where a good physical examination comes in. If you have long tract signs (see website for description), then a more thorough workup is in order. If you don’t, it is much less likely that your symptoms are cord related.
Uniform swelling of the joints of the fingers does point to an autoimmune disorder like Lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. Brain MRIs are indicated if there is more indication of central symptoms (cranial nerve involvement or problems with balance, thoughts or body symptoms that cannot be explained by other disorders).
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.
