neck pain and radiculopathy-no herniations, what could be the cause?

[seashelly]

I have moderate to severe neck, arm and shoulder pain, numbness, weakness and visable atrophy in my left arm.  x-rays showed bone spurs at C5 & C6.  

MRI conclusions:
Mild to moderate C5-6 uncovertebral degenerative changes are present which produce mild to moderate right greater than left C6 ventral rootlet posterior displacement, mild central canal compromise and moderate to advanced bilateral neural foraminal narrowing.
Mild C4-5 uncovertebral degenerative changes are present and accompanied by mild posterior displacement of the left C5 rootlets and moderate left foraminal narrowing.
Asymetric mild to moderate C3-4 uncovertebral degenerative changes are noted which failed to contact the C4 ventral rootlets.
Moderate C6-7 disc degenerative changes are present which failed to compromise the central canal or result in cord or C7 nerve root impingement.
My GP ordered the MRI, she wants to refer me to a "pain specialist".  Shouldn't I be concerned about the CAUSE of the numbness and atrophy?  Am I risking permanent nerve damage?
What causes foraminal narrowing?  Should I see a neurologist?  Orthopedist?  NSAID, muscle relaxers, tylenol do not help.  Neither does massage.  Any suggestions appreciated.

[straight talk]

I also have 2 bulging and 2 herniated discs in neck.  MRI did not confirm herniations, had a discogram.  Surgery is suggested but after reading some of these messages I think I may be better off living with the cronic pains and limited activities until advances are made in the artificial cervical discs that may mot need fusion. I have facial pain(TMJ),neck,shoulders,arms, hands. Very frustrating.

[sambriony]

I had terrible problems with my lower back following 2 surgeries for disc removal L4/5.I also now have a prolapsed disc in the neck and two bulging disc.I understand your pain.However to the point.Following surgery my leg pain developed and I started to get pain in both legs.Like you I had an MRI scan which showed nothing prominent.Fortunately I managed to find a good neurosurgeon who could see I was in pain and performed a discograph or discogram(i am in scotland) and it highlighted that my discs from L4-5 down were leaking.The protein from the discs irritate the nerves and the symtoms are similiar if not worse than a bulging disc.I would suggest if you can to find a good surgeon who has the appetite to find out what your problems are.My spine(at41) is a mess and I am seeing the surgeon again next week.a car accident has excascerbatednmy condition.Good Luck.