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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes A Sharp Pain In Shoulder Radiating To Thumb, Index And Middle Fingers?

Hi there, Four years ago i broke my right shoulder, and also damaged my neck. Ever since then i experience bad headaches and burning in the bottom of my neck. Today i experienced the burning as per usual but the burning stopped and was replaced with a sharp pain from my left shoulder down into my thumb index finger and middle finger. Should i be concerned?
Fri, 12 Sep 2014
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Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement 's  Response
Hello,
Thanks for your query.
Pain in neck and shoulder with pain radiation to the right hand 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.

MRI will help in the proper diagnosis and evaluation of the nerve damage.

Treatment includes
1. Use of cervical collar helps in immobilisation 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.

I do hope that you have found something helpful and I will be glad to answer any further query.
Take care
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What Causes A Sharp Pain In Shoulder Radiating To Thumb, Index And Middle Fingers?

Hello, Thanks for your query. Pain in neck and shoulder with pain radiation to the right hand 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. MRI will help in the proper diagnosis and evaluation of the nerve damage. Treatment includes 1. Use of cervical collar helps in immobilisation 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. I do hope that you have found something helpful and I will be glad to answer any further query. Take care