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What Causes Inflammation In Upper Spine When Diagnosed With Arthritis?
Question: I have inflammation of the upper spine and recently diagnosed with arthritis. When I mentioned that I sometimes have severe, stabbing pains in the area usually brought on by prolonged standing or sitting that actually make me gasp for breath, my chiropractor said he didn't think it was related to the arthritis. Usually symptoms last for only a few hours, but Sunday, April 10, these pains started and have continued and feels as though it is spreading through my rib cage. Almost made a trip to the emergency last night because the pain was so bad. I saw my general Doctor yesterday and he x-rayed my chest. He said he couldnt see anything wrong, but ordered electrocardiograph, blood work, and advised I see a cardiologist, but felt the pain likely was associated with the arthritis. My e-mail is YYYY@YYYY . I do not have reports or images to upload. Thank you for any advice you may have.
Brief Answer:
possible related to arthritis
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
It is possible that it is linked to the arthritis.
If the changes in the vertebra are causing any compression or trauma to the nerves in the area then this can cause sudden onset of pain.
Nerve trauma can cause pain. Nerve related pain is often sharp/stabbing or sudden.
An xray would show changes to the bones but would not show if there is any possible effect on surrounding nerves. A CT or MRI would be needed for this , particularly an MRI which would be the better option of the two.
There are other causes of nerve related pain as well such as(a) vitamin b12 or folate deficiency,
(b) liver or kidney disease,
(c) diabetes,
(d)side effect of medication,
(e)ms, stroke,
(f) infection (shingles but normally have a rash)
You may want to consider an orthopedic doctor (assessment of bones, muscles etc).
He or she may be best able to determine the exact cause and can refer if this is needed.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
possible related to arthritis
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
It is possible that it is linked to the arthritis.
If the changes in the vertebra are causing any compression or trauma to the nerves in the area then this can cause sudden onset of pain.
Nerve trauma can cause pain. Nerve related pain is often sharp/stabbing or sudden.
An xray would show changes to the bones but would not show if there is any possible effect on surrounding nerves. A CT or MRI would be needed for this , particularly an MRI which would be the better option of the two.
There are other causes of nerve related pain as well such as(a) vitamin b12 or folate deficiency,
(b) liver or kidney disease,
(c) diabetes,
(d)side effect of medication,
(e)ms, stroke,
(f) infection (shingles but normally have a rash)
You may want to consider an orthopedic doctor (assessment of bones, muscles etc).
He or she may be best able to determine the exact cause and can refer if this is needed.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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