I went to the doctor to get a referral to a spine specialist, and they suggested that I try physical therapy first. I have gone 4 times so far, and it is going well! The physical therapist said that besides a bulging disc I'm extremely hypermobile and weak in the neck with a very stiff thoracic region. She said the arm pain was definitely being caused by the lowest of my cervical discs, rather than a thoracic disc. She gave me some thoracic stretches to do as well as some strengthening exercises for increasing upper back mobility, so that there isn't so much strain on my neck. These exercises actually helped reduce my bulging disc pain as well as stiffness. I'm still not able to run or lift overhead weights, but I suspect I will probably never lift over my head again, just to be safe. She is gradually helping me be able to run again without major pain. Other treatment she has been doing include electrotherapy, an arm bike, and exercises with a thoracic spine foam roller. I'm glad the doctor referred me to a physical therapist before a spine specialist, because it seems to be working!
Thank you. I will definitely let you know what I find out.
Spinal stenosis isn't something that is generally seen in 20 year olds. I'd start with seeing your primary, and getting a referral to a spine specialist. If you don't have a primary, maybe the ER can refer you to one. Make sure you get a copy of the X-rays to take with you.
Hope you feel better, and let us know what you find out, I'm curious.