What Causes Pain In The Left Arm?
The pain in her left arm & now the left hand are much worse than she experienced with the other arm, when spurs were the issue. No history of heart disease in her family.
Cervical Radiculopathy
Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome
I appreciate your concern
An EKG should be done to rule out a cardiac cause even with no family history.
Based on your description, cervical radiculopathy is the most likely cause in which the nerve roots near the cervical vertebrae is compressed upon leading to pain and in severe cases loss of sensations in the distribution of the nerve.
Nerve conduction studies can be done and acute phase treatment should be initiated with cervical collar immobilization, NSAIDs, Pregabalin, physiotherapy and muscle relaxants.
In severe cases, oral/ injectable corticosteroids and/or epidural steroids can be advised to minimize the pain associated with the radiculopathy. Surgery is reserved for decompression where its deemed necessary to relieve compression.
These are the options which can be tailored according to the clinical assessment and will of the patient to undergo the procedure.
Comorbid conditions like osteoporosis should also be addressed. DEXA scan, vitamin D, calcium levels should be obtained in consult with your doctor.
Wishing you best of health
Thanks
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Dr. M.S. Khalil