A little background. I am a dental hygienist and obviously have to have my neck in many different positions. I have had carpal tunnel surgery on both hands. For a few years I have dealt with shoulder pain in my left arm. I have had muscular issues in my neck and it would pinch nerves at times and cause a dull ache in my arm. I use Motrin when it is flaring really bad. Well recently I will go to lift my arm and get a severe pain in the front part of my shoulder to the point I had to stop the movement and about 5 weeks ago I started having elbow pain. So severe that I can t lift my daughter and last week I couldn t even lift a heavier beach towel with that arm alone. Should I see my nurse practioner or go ahead and make an appointment with an orthopedist? Also, what do you think this could possibly be?
Dear patient You have got pain in left shoulder arm and elbow which is radiating type and this may be due to disc prolapse at level of cervical spine mostly at c5 and c6 level. Also, possibility of rotator cuff injury at left shoulder needs to be ruled out since its very painful at left shoulder joint. This needs to be investigated with MRI of cervical spine with screening of left shoulder. Visit radiology center nearby you and get it.  Meanwhile, start tablet diclofenac plus thiocolchicoside combination twice a day with tab regain plus vitamin B12 at bedtime for 10 days. You need to consult expert orthopedic surgeon with report.  All the best.