Muscle pain both forearms

[kaypeeoh]

Several years ago I had an MRI that showed a bulge near a cervical disc.  I had been complaining about crackling noises when bending my neck.  The doc said "wait and see".  Starting about three months ago I developed muscle pains in both arms, as if I'd been lifting weights. But I haven't.  I looked in an anatomy book and it looks like the pain is centered around the radial nerves.  Doing pushups doesn't hurt but gripping anything is painful.  Also my grip strength is reduced.  And although it's not painful, I've got itchy skin in both forearms, just above the wrists.

If I bend my elbows while working at the laptop, they eventually become stiff and it's difficult to straighten them.  I don't feel crepitus in the elbows but have had it in both shoulders for years due to rotator injuries.  

The crackling noises are still there plus a sharp neck pain if I bend my head a particular way.  I run an average of 50 miles per week but don't to any weight work.  Lately I'm afraid to pick up a barbell, thinking I won't be able to grip it.  

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Thanks for keeping me posted! Hope you get well soon.

[kaypeeoh]

The doc diagnosed probable lateral epicondylitis.  I get nerve conduction tests in two weeks and for now gave me straps to wear on my forearms.  He doesn't think the soreness is being caused by the bulging disc.   If I get no relief, then he'll consider an mri.

kaypeeoh

[kaypeeoh]

Thank for the reply.  I'm seeing a doctor soon who I assume will order an MRI.

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi
Thanks for writing to the forum!
I would suggest you go back to the neurologist and get a repeat MRI. The bulge is probably causing pressure symptoms. Meanwhile do not lift anything heavy and avoid jerks to the neck.
Hope this helps. It is difficult to comment beyond this at this stage. Please let me know if there is any thing else and do keep me posted. Take care!