Neck Pain and numbness

Hi,

       I first experienced neck pain three years ago. This was felt as pain in the neck radiating to the sides in the back. I consulted an orthopaedist and the pain was in control after some exercises. I used to do these exercises when I was uncomfortable in the neck and it used to go away. I should mention at this point that my career involves using computers for atleast 6 - 8 hours a day. Now, recently I had pain again in the neck - 4 on a scale of 10. But, I have also experienced a tingling sensation, slight numbness, in the right hand thumb region, some tingling in the forearm, little finger and sometimes in the wrist. I am consulting a therapist. My neck pain cure is the main focus as the numbness in fingers is not pronounced. I have done some reading and I am concerned about these, Cervical radiclopathy, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, general RSI. My question is what is the best way to diagnose this. Have I exposed myself to RSI based injury. Also, how does this affect my career in computers which is very important to me :-). I am 27 years old and I have been using computers for the last 7-8 years.

Thanks.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

An MRI of the cervical spine would be the next test I would consider.  Any type of disc herniation can lead to the tingling in the the thumb, and forearm.  The MRI is the most comprehensive test to diagnose this.  

You may want to discuss this with your personal physician, or obtain a neurosurgery consult.  

As to how it can affect your career - this would depend on what is found on further evaluation.  Normally, herniated discs (if present), can be treated conservatively with physical therapy.  There are a minority that don't get better and require surgery or epidural injections.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
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