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Questions posted in the
Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Question Title: severe chronic neck painForum: Neurology Forum
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| I am trying obtain information on diagnostic procedures for severe chronic neck and shoulder pain for a friend. She has been experiencing this for approximately 1-1/2 years and it has become progressively worse. She is now to the point that she is only able to sleep in a recliner, with her head sharply tilted to the right. So far, only palliative medications have been offered and no real diagnosis obtained. The only substantive finding derived from multiple testing is "absent communicating artery" in her neck, recently discovered in an MRA. Her pain is so severe that she is not able to perform normal activities of daily living and the mental strain of suffering with an undiagnosed condition for this period of time has taken a huge toll on her emotional health and placed a great strain on her marriage. She is a 55 year old white female. Advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks for the question but you do not give us much to work with. Many patients experience chronic pain with all diagnostic tests being unremarkable. I assume that she has no history of trauma? or other underlying antecedent event? It concerns me that she is unable to do ADL. An EMG test done by a qualified electromyographer can sometimes yield findings of chronic nerve injury but after 1 1/2 yrs the yield becomes less. At this point I think an evaluation by a neuologist and then possibly a pain program is the way to go. She should be actively involved in a physical therapy program as well. If she wishes a consultation at CCF call 216 444 5559. This information is provided for general medical education purposes. Please consult your doctor for diagnostic and treatment options.
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