Question Title: radiculopathy and myelopathy

Had anterior discectomy on c5-6 14 months ago because of intense pain
especially after eeg. At the time mri showed prominent right paracentral
disc herniation with spurring at 5-6, central disc herniation with spurring at c6-7 on ventral aspect of cord and right central (large) herniaton at 3-4. Surgery relieved unbearable pain,(in right upper arm) but still have pain
in neck both sides. Last exam spurling positive. I have intense pain
in both arms, upper and lower-pain in thumb,index and middle finger of right hand and left thumb-throbing. I have stinging pain back and up from
elbow on right arm mostly. I have burning pain across upper chest from
shoulder to shoulder and under right arm into back. I have weakness in
hands, pain in wrists and am experiencing weakness, heaviness and pain
in legs when walking and climbing stairs. Did i mention stabbing pain
both sides of neck and i cannot turn my head. Surgeon gave me cortizone
shot last week which after 4 days of soreness did help the pulling in my
neck, but not other symtoms. I don't blame Dr, as i feel he helped with
the original pain.

Questions Do my symtoms indicate radiculopathy and myelopathy? Do my symthoms indicate c5-6 trouble again? I am looking for other opinions
and may consider traveling to other surgeons as my diagnosis indicates
degenerative disc disease and arthritis. Can i stop this degeneration
and pain through other therapy or am i heading for more surgery?

---

Dear Robert:

Your symptoms of chest and arm pain, and of hand numbness and weakness are quite typical of cervical radiculopathy (C5-6 and C6-7 levels, also conceivably C7-8 if your hand is really weak). Your leg symptoms could represent a myelopathy, but are not typical and may potentially imply a lumbar degenerative problem which is commonly associated with a neck problem.

Myelopathy is a serious problem, and needs to be diagnosed or excluded with relative assurance. The best test for a myelopathy is a good neurological examination. The question of whether you need another surgery is a complex one and would need a careful review of your clinical situation and also your old and new neuro-imaging.

You should ideally see a neurologist prior to seeing a surgeon again. neurologists and neurosurgeons at the Cleveland Clinic would be most happy to give your complex clinical situation careful consideration. Appointments may be made by calling (800)223-2273, or (216)444-5559 locally.

---