question about c-spine

[Crewchief67t]

I was wondering if anyone out there has had herniations in c-spine with chest, arm and back pains?  I have been to ER soo many times, about 30 doc visits, cardiology visits.  Everything has come back normal.  Getting ready to have mri of spine to see if that is causing problems.

Thanks

[kittyluv1]

I am surprised that no doctor you have seen previously had ordered an MRI of the cervical spine.  Based on your symptoms, you do exhibit some classic signs of degenerative disc changes in the cervical area.  I can understand the cardiology evaluation to rule out any heart related problems, but ER doctors are usually better in determining the need for further diagnostic testing.
In my case, my orthopedist took x-rays in his office and referred me for an MRI that same day (neck, arm, shoulder pain with some tingling/numbness in arm).  Had the MRI within the week and was seen by a neurosurgeon within 2 weeks.  Surgeon reviewed the MRI films with me and recommended surgery on the initial exam.  I postponed until after the Christmas/New Year holidays, but had surgery ACDF C4-C7 on 2/17/09.  I am now almost 5 ,months postop and doing great.  Most of my pain was gone within 3 hrs of the surgery.  Have had some residual numbness in my little finger of the left hand, but considering the horrific problems I had before surgery, it is barely noticeable,
While it is possible that you may not need surgery, the MRI is really the only diagnostic tool that can determine the status of your cervical spine and whether there is evidence of nerve involvement.
I wish you the best and hope you see resolution soon.
Post with an update and let us know of your progress ----

[Crewchief67t]

Thanks for the response. I have heard every excuse for not wanting an mri ordered from my docs.  I was getting sick of it.  I went in on Monday and demanded one.  I have some severe anxiety issues over this.  It is driving me crazy.  

The pains are usually happening when i am seated.  Thats the part that really gets me.  Thousands of dollars and NO answers.  I go see a Therapist this monday which i dont know if i really need to go but at this point i am willing to do anything to feel normal again.

Once again Thanks

[Crewchief67t]

Also having jaw pains, finger pains in both hands, wrists, arm pains, back pains.  Almost everywhere.  I am soo sick of this!  I just want my life back.  I have been suffering horrible anxiety issues over this as well!  

Please,  if you have anything to add PLEASE do so.  I am getting desperate for some answers.  

Thanks

[Crewchief67t]

Had mri yesterday, doc called today and said mild bulging of c5.  No nerve impingment.  Just wanted to know if this could still be causing my pain issues with my left arm, shoulder and hand pains amongst other pains?  Please help!  ruling this out surely increased my anxiety level back to the way it was a couple of months ago.

Any input would be appreciated!

Thanks

[Orcas]

I hear you. I have had numb left hand and found out from MRI, bad disc. I had cervical fusion and my life is great now, the surgery was not that bad. I felt better in 5 days My doctor did a great job.  If you are having numbness and pain you have a nerve problem it will not go away, it will get worse. I tried to wish my problem away, but only got worst.
Dude get that problem fixed now. The recovery was 2 weeks tops.
Good Luck