what is your opinion for bulging disc at C3-4 C5-6 and xtra ribs at C7 and TOS?

Question

3 yrs ago I began tingling in arms & fingers. Now have pain in neck shoulders chest arms. 1 yr ago had cervical xray revealed xtra rib at C7 (left and right). DX was thoracic outlet syndrome. Then had EMG done and Phys Therapy. I continue most PT exercise but pain continues to worsen. Recently had MRI which shows bulging disc at C3-4, C5-6, T5-7 linear structures posterior to cord represent prominent vascular structures. Family Doc wanted more PT but scheduled me to see neurosurgeon next week. What should I expect? More PT? Surgery? Pain Meds? The pain on scale 1-10 on a good day is 3-4 on a bad day 8-10. The constant tingling wakes me up in the night and the pain in neck and shoulder hinders me in what I can lift, and even what I can do since it is painful to keep my arms any higher than my waist/chest and very painful above my head. The EMG was negative for nerve damage and carpal tunnel. MRI shows no compression of cord.

Answer 1

TOS and cervical disc herniations can have very similar symptoms. Both can also be treated in a variety of ways. Most often, the first and best treatment is therapy with a physical therapist or athletic trainer. A McKenzie credentialed therapist specializes in the spine and disc problems and would be your best bet. I would try therapy first (or again) before surgery as there are always more risks with surgery versus therapy. Also, it is necessary to definitively diagnose your problem as the treatment for these two conditions are different. I really suggest a lot of research into both possible conditions and all possible treatments. It is a great idea to do this before your visit with the neurosurgeon and have a list of questions. In the end, your best advice will be from those professionals who actually, physically evaluate you. At best these internet answers are educated guesses. Be an advocate for yourself and really research and if something doesn't sit right with you, make it right. Good luck

Answer 2

Many people have bulging discs. As we age, our disc spaces narrow because the gelatinous substance between the bony vertebrae becomes more watery. The bulges are not an issue unless or until such time as the bulges become protrusions or herniations, which can then impinge upon the nerve roots causing radiating pain. So I wouldn't worry so much about the bulges. Now, the thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is another story. I think the P/T and pain meds are just masking the underlying problem, and surgery might be the answer. Before you see the neurosurgeon, do as much research on the internet about TOS as possible, and write down a list of questions for the doctor. The more you understand about your condition, the better off you will be. Good luck!

Answer 3

I also have bulging disc at C-3-5 and I also have arthritis and muscle dissolve (all on my lower back). I have this pain for 5 years. My left leg numbbs out on me all the time. Last week my left hand started to tingle and num out. I take vicidon, but that doesn't help. I have a doctors appt. on Monday. Can any one help me. I need to tell doctor to change my prescription for pain, I need something stronger. What can you suggest I take for pain.

Answer 4

I had a bulging disc, spurs, and a herniated disc in the cervical region. I have a wonderful spinal surgeon and he operated on my neck, removing affected discs, inserting cadaver bone wedges and a titanium plate. I have had much relief since then.