Originally thought to be carpal tunnel, now suggested a trapped nerve in neck

[jojo264]

Symptoms: Left upper neck severe pain
Symptoms: Left upper back  severe pain
Symptoms: Tingling in the left arm on exertion, sometimes similar in both arms together on exertion
Had this 5 years gradually getting worse

There seems to be an ambiguity of diagnosis. Originally it was suggested carpal tunnel syndrome sugesting also an operation, now it is thought trapped nerve in neck (because all fingers are affected= more than three), treatment now painful physio back stretching which seems to be aggravating my condition.
I have found Arnica gel soothing, also heat aggravates, but ice helps. I am worried about the condition, if it gets worse it could be incapacitating, any ideas?

[kittyluv1]

As your symptoms have been present for such a lengthy time (5 yrs) and seem to be escalating, it is possible that there is significant nerve involvement which is producing the arm pain and tingling sensations.
Have you had a recent MRI or other diagnostic testing?  It would be beneficial to have the appropriate tests to determine the extent of nerve compression that exists.
It is possible that you will require more aggressive treatment which could include surgery.
Physical therapy may not adequately treat the condition and it would be beneficial to discuss with your doctor all available treatment options.
Often when the initial symptoms are arm pain and numbness, the initial response is to suspect carpal tunnel.  More often than not it is related to degenerative changes in the cervical spine.
Keep us posted on your progress and let us know if there is any specific issue you need to address.
Best wishes ----

[jojo264]

Hi Kitty
thanks for your reply, I haven't had an MRI scan yet even after 5 years.
I had a nerve test last year which ruled out carpal tunnel but my doctor decided it was still carpal tunnel, however the pain is gradually getting worse seen physio on wednesday who gave me acupuincture seemed to ease it a bit she said I should have an MRI scan she thinks it is discs problem in cervical spine (neck). My doctor has now referred me to a rheumatologist as it is only them who can decide if I need an MRI scan because I insisted to my doctor that I must have an MRI scan to get to the bottom of all this. Arnica gel seems to help, in the meantime I will keep you informed, but greatly appreciate your views on this latest development, thanks, Jojo.

[kittyluv1]

Great!  It doesn't matter who orders it as long as it gets done --
Don't know all the ins and outs with the NHS system, but the delay in getting diagnostic tests seems a bit unreasonable for someone in pain.
Post the results of the MRI when you have them and we can try and help translate the medical jargon for you.
Good that you stood up for yourself --- we need to be our own advocates in situations such as this.