Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.
All the symptoms in your description are typically suggestive of
CERVICAL DISC DISEASE with
RADICULOPATHY.
The initial management of this problem is as follows -
- Rest: A soft
cervical collar is advisable. It should not be used for more than a week or two as it may worsen the condition with prolonged usage.
- Medicines: Analgesic are needed in the acute phase. Muscle relaxants are essential for relieving muscle spasms once the acute pain subsides. Neurotropic vitamins like METHYLCOBALAMINE (activated Vit B12) or
PREGABALIN will help in alleviating the
neuropathic pain.
- Cervical traction: may enlarge the disc space, permitting the prolapse to subside. Intermittent cervical traction for not more than 30 minutes at a time. Weight upto 8kg can be added.
- Physiotherapy: Once the acute phase of pain has subsided, Isometric strengthening exercises of the paravertebral muscles are started. Moist heat can be useful
- Epidural steroids: are useful for patients with severe radicular pains in the limbs
If the symptoms do not resolve with the above measures, consult an orthosurgeon and follow his advice.
Hope this information is helpful. Good day