Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
What Could Cause Pain In The Rib Cage, Shoulder, Neck And Ears In A 63-year-old?
I have a very sore rib cage on the left side of my body. The pain goes up to my shoulder down my arm to my elbow and up my neck to my jaw and ear. I have had this for about 2months. I told my Dr. and he said it probably was narrowing of my neck bones. I am a 63 year old female with osteoarthritis.
Wed, 6 Feb 2019
Hello,
Thank you for using “Ask a doctor” to post your health query.
I read carefully your question and I understand your concern.
What you are describing seems like a pinched nerve. The pain seems to follow the pattern of the nerve rout.
The most important thing to help yourself is a good posture during day and a good bed during night.
Next, you can use local analgesic creams to relieve the pain. Use one of them regularly for 3-4 times per day. If that is not enough you can also take a pain killer as needed. I think though that because you have osteoarthritis, most probably you are already using a painkiller, so be careful on adding other medicines that are taken by mouth to avoid overdose.
If you can see a physical therapist that would be very helpful. They may advice specific exercises to strengthen your back muscles, so you will be able to hold a good posture without any effort.
If worse or not better, I would recommend seeing a local doctor.
Hope this is helpful.
Let me know if you need more clarifications.
Regards,
Dr. Papaqako
Thank you for using “Ask a doctor” to post your health query.
I read carefully your question and I understand your concern.
What you are describing seems like a pinched nerve. The pain seems to follow the pattern of the nerve rout.
The most important thing to help yourself is a good posture during day and a good bed during night.
Next, you can use local analgesic creams to relieve the pain. Use one of them regularly for 3-4 times per day. If that is not enough you can also take a pain killer as needed. I think though that because you have osteoarthritis, most probably you are already using a painkiller, so be careful on adding other medicines that are taken by mouth to avoid overdose.
If you can see a physical therapist that would be very helpful. They may advice specific exercises to strengthen your back muscles, so you will be able to hold a good posture without any effort.
If worse or not better, I would recommend seeing a local doctor.
Hope this is helpful.
Let me know if you need more clarifications.
Regards,
Dr. Papaqako
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....