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What Causes Pain And Pressure In The Shoulders?
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for a few yrs now my shoulders/back of neck have been in agony. it feels like all my pressure is built up there my neck goes real stiff somtimes my neck will go so stiff i cant turn my head at all. I took some photos and noticed a bump. is this normal?
Looks to be prominent vertebra - usually normal
Detailed Answer:
Hi.
Thanks for your query, albeit specific.
Noted the history, seen the photos and understood your concerns.
THe so-called lump at the area, at the base of the back portion of the neck is projected Last cervical or first Thoracic area and is palpable and visible in almost all the people, will be prominent in some and not so prominent in others.
Please put a finger and palpate this - if it is hard like a bone this is a normal vertebra.
If this is soft or so, please let me know.
About the shoulder/back of neck pain, feeling pressure, stiffness; sometimes unable to turn the head is usually due to a condition called fibromyalgia. When the muscle sprain is severe, they go into spasm hence the problem of inability to turn the head sometimes.
The constant contraction of the neck muscles for it to maintain the position of the head adds-on to the problems as this is a normal function hence one does not feel if there is no soreness of muscles or so.
I would advise you the following:
Rubefacient liniments that gives warmth and relaxation of muscles.
Any anti-inflammatory medication like Ibuprofen if this suits you.
Avoid any activities that need bending of neck as the muscles will be working more against gravity to keep the position of the neck and head like working with computers or so.
You may also use a collar support, this helps by reducing the strain on the affected muscles.
Clinical evaluation by your Doctor, further investigations as per the findings and referral to the Specialists as needed.
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ENdoscopy and MRI of the neck
Detailed Answer:
With the additional history, you will need the following investigations to get an appropriate diagnosis and proper management as per the findings.
Upper GI Endoscopy for the pain in the back on swallowing for esophagitis and related disorders.
MRI of the neck as there are symptoms related to the spinal problems. This will help to get the correct diagnosis and proper management.
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