Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Pain In The Neck And Left Arm?
Question: Pain is off and on but has been pretty steady for 7 days. The pain is in my neck and left arm. Hurts really bad sometimes. Feels like it is in the bone. Radiates down my arm. Could not sleep last few nights. Taking Aleve but it will not kill the pain. Seems that when I reach for something the pain goes down my arm. Massage helped but pain came back pretty quick. Heat seems to help.
Brief Answer:
Can be cervical spondylosis.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
Pain in the neck and left arm is suggestive of a nerve root compression at the cervical vertebral level due to degenerative disc changes or cervical spondylosis. It happens primarily due to degenerative changes secondary to age in the cervical spine. Past neck injury may also contribute to the degeneration.
X-ray of neck in lateral view or MRI will help in the diagnosis.
Treatment includes :
1. Use of cervical collar helps in immobilization and brings relief.
2. Medical drugs like pain killers - Acetaminophen / Ibuprofen and muscle relaxants might be helpful.
3. Methylcobalamin supplements are also recommended for nerve compression symptoms.
4. Cervical isometric exercises are beneficial to maintain the strength of the neck muscles. Neck and upper back stretching exercises, as well as light aerobic activities, also are recommended under the guidance of a physical therapist.
5. Hot fomentation helps in relieving acute symptoms.
6. You can avoid using a pillow.
As you try these measures, I'll also encourage you to consult an orthopedician for both evaluation and to avail stronger prescription medications.
I hope this answers your query.
In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Praveen Tayal.
For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal
Can be cervical spondylosis.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
Pain in the neck and left arm is suggestive of a nerve root compression at the cervical vertebral level due to degenerative disc changes or cervical spondylosis. It happens primarily due to degenerative changes secondary to age in the cervical spine. Past neck injury may also contribute to the degeneration.
X-ray of neck in lateral view or MRI will help in the diagnosis.
Treatment includes :
1. Use of cervical collar helps in immobilization and brings relief.
2. Medical drugs like pain killers - Acetaminophen / Ibuprofen and muscle relaxants might be helpful.
3. Methylcobalamin supplements are also recommended for nerve compression symptoms.
4. Cervical isometric exercises are beneficial to maintain the strength of the neck muscles. Neck and upper back stretching exercises, as well as light aerobic activities, also are recommended under the guidance of a physical therapist.
5. Hot fomentation helps in relieving acute symptoms.
6. You can avoid using a pillow.
As you try these measures, I'll also encourage you to consult an orthopedician for both evaluation and to avail stronger prescription medications.
I hope this answers your query.
In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Praveen Tayal.
For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
