Neck and Arm Pain

I am a 29 year old female who has been suffering from neck and arm pain for over 5 years.  I had a suprascapular nerve decompression done in 2003 that helped my shoulder pain for a little while.  About 4 months ago I started having increased burning in my left shoulder blade and pain in my left arm.  I went to an orthopaedic doctor who sent me for PT which did not help at all.  He ordered an MRI of my left shoulder which didn't show anything.  I went for an EMG which showed nerve damage in each of the muscles tested in my left arm and shoulder.  It was then suggested I see a neurologist.  The neurologist ordered a cervical MRI and started me on Gabapentin.  The MRI results stated:  "Abnormal MRI scan of the cervical spine demonstrating the following:   Broad-based protrusions are noted at the C4-5 and C5-6 disc space levels.  Mild foraminal stenosis on the right at C5-6 is seen."  The doctor wants me to increase the gabapentin and stay on it for 6-12 months.  It helps with the burning in my shoulder blade, but not the pain in my arm and shoulder.  I do not care for the way the medication makes me feel and I am not sure if I should seek another opinion.  Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[rainsummer]

Ask him to send you to a "neurosurgeon" for another opinion.

[Linda68]

Help, I have been suffering with neck pain and back of shoulder blade burning pain for 4 years now. I have been chronic for 2 years. Now pain is going down my left arm.  All the pain is on my left side.  I had mri done. Md said i had slight pinched nerve and sent me to get steroid shots in my neck.  After 4 shots still no relief.  I tried gabapentin, pain meds that didnt work.  Now he sent me to get EMG, they said everything was fine.  I have been out of work for 4 months now.  My job as a pharmacy technician required alot of repetition of pushing and twisting medicine bottles as I was bending my neck forward or to the left holding the phone.  No breaks all day.  Can someone please help!!!!!

[scpearl]

Linda, nip it.  I had the same trouble about ten years ago.  I now have a plate on disc 4, 5 and 6.  I am not a Doctor, but shots and meds will only last for so long. Go see a neurosurgeon, or an orthopedic surgeon, and just nip it in the bud.  I did and felt better.  I even started the gym six months later.