c5/6 osteophytes - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

daking360 · 09-01-2008, 05:53 AM

I have been getting pain (right side only) neck, shoulder, arm, fingers. Especially pins and needles and numbness in fingers. CT scan showed C5/6 osteophyte with narrowing of disc and narrowing of disc space C6/7. Meds include valium, Mobic (NSAID) and panadol forte. Pain attenuated somewhat, physiotherapy did not seem to help. I am 6 weeks into this how long before I should suggest to my GP I see a specialist? Anyone got any ideas about what I can do at home? I am a 49 year old very active high school teacher and have stopped all physical activity due to the irritability. Prognosis ?

kindest regards
glen

barmc5 · 09-06-2008, 04:03 PM

Hi - I have exactly the same as you and I went to see a specialist and he said that it will eventually fuse into my spine. I'd still get a second opinion as when I asked him how long it would take to fuse into my own spine he said "how long is a piece of string". I'd get a second opinion or see a specialist if I were you. Good luck

daking360 · 09-07-2008, 12:12 AM

Many thanks. I hope you start feeling better soon g

greenacres · 09-09-2008, 07:09 AM

I personally recommend asking your Dr. for a referral to either an orthopedic surgeon or neurosurgeon - I can tell you that osteophytes (bone spurs) will never go away, they only get worse with time. Just depends on how much time that happens before you really start feeling the worst of it which can cause you to lose feeling in your arms and hands. I'd say you're at the point now in which you need surgical help, but only a neuro or ortho can determine based on your neurological examination. GOOD LUCK to you and keep us posted, ok?

Sandra

SpineAZ · 09-09-2008, 11:35 PM

If the symptoms have persisted for 6 weeks with no relief you need to see a neurosurgeon or orthopedic spine surgeon as soon as possible. The longer nerves remain impinged / affected the longer it takes to heal and you risk not having full recovery. I wish I had my cervical fusion sooner as I still have some residual numbness in two fingers - simply becuase I waited too long.