Pain in the shoulder and arm with sensory loss points to a nerve root compression but thoracic outlet syndrome is possible. If the pain in the arm increases with overhead activity, thoracic outlet syndrome is more likely. If the pain decreases with overhead activity, radiculopathy is more likely.
Please see the section on this website “When to have neck surgery” to understand surgical indications more thoroughly. By the interpretation of the MRI findings, root compression of the C7 nerve (C6-7 level) is most likely the cause. If so, and no significant weakness is present, she can try epidural steroid injections and physical therapy. With severe pain and weakness, surgery (an ACDF-see website) might be indicated.
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.
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.