Muscle spasms, protruding disc, conservative treatment?

[sarkin]

For four years I have been suffering from muscle spasm in my upper back, primarily levator, and trapezius muscles.  I was told by my TMD doc. that it was from my jaw dysfunction.  After my last bought of spasms, I went to my PCP and had an MRI done.  I have a significantly protruding disc at C5-C6 space w/ some spondylosis.  I am seeing a neurosurgeon soon.  My first question is; what is the likelyhood that conservative treatment will work after 4 years?  Does scar tissue develop in that region and if so will it create a problem?  My second question is;  I have noticed a soft lump left sternoclavicular region.  Is this just a lymph node responding to my neck problems?  I have just finished up a 6 day course of amoxicillin w/ no change in the lump.  I am a 32 y/o female.

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-CS]

Conservative therapy including neck strengthing excercises may benefit you. However if the disc protrusion is impinging upon the cord, and your symptoms have been stable over several years, then there may be no change with conservative treatment. The neurosurgeon should discuss both surgical and non-surgical options with you.



Regarding the lump, the neck problem should not cause an inflammed lymph node. You should discuss this with your primary doctor. Good luck.