Is it possible for an atypical hemangioma or a mildly desicated disk to be the cause of my chronic neck pain? Please take a look at my story, I really need some insight.

I was in a car accident 4 years ago and have been suffering from chronic severe neck and back pain ever since. I am only 22 years old. My X-Ray shows pre-degenerative signs at C2 - C3 and straightening of the cervical spine. My old MRI that was done 3 years ago shows a 5mm atypical hemangioma in the C4 body and that the C2-C3 disk is mildly dessicated. I just had another MRI done and all the report shows is a hemangioma in the C4 vertebral body and straightening of the usual cervical lordosis possibly related to muscle spasm. My muscles are in constant spasm everyday. I have done physical therapy 4 times and tried every pain management approach out there. No muscle relaxer will alleviate the spasms. What could be the cause of this. I need someone to help me, I am too young to continue down this path.

[Prem Pillay, MD]

I doubt that the hemangioma in the bone is the cause of your pain. This is becoming a common finding on many spine MRIs.
I would consult with a neuro/spine specialist and have a thorough spine and neurological exam done.
You could benefit from aquatherapy and relaxation techniques.

Dr Prem Pillay
Consultant Neurosurgeon
Neuro Spine and Pain Center
Singapore

[Zak_Han]

Hi,sorry to know it,my opinion as fellow:
The pre-degenerative signs at C2 - C3 and straightening of the cervical spine are due to soft tissue injury (Probable whiplash),this injury can lead to chronic neck , upper back pain and muscle spasm.
So atypical hemangioma or a mildly desicated disk are not the cause of your  chronic neck pain.
Carry on physio treatment,plus deep and intensive acupuncture to relive inflammation and keep moving...
Good luck!