How does a C5-C6 cervical disc herniation cause arm numbness?

Question

Hi doctor,

My right arm is numb from the elbow to the wrist, and sometimes I feel like getting an electric shock inside. About 29 years ago, I got my C4/C5 lower disc removed. I have neck and back pain too, for which I am taking Lyrica now.

I had an MRI, and the report is as follows. Tight cervical spinal canal at the C5/C6 disc level and posterior disc herniation seen indenting the ventral aspect of the cord. In C3/C4, C4/C5, and C6/C7, mild diffuse posterior disc bulges are seen. Please guide me.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

From your complaints, it is clear that you are suffering from a prolapsed intervertebral disc in the cervical region. The prolapsed disc is compressing your spinal nerve roots in your arm.

I request you to kindly attach MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) images. Most likely, it appears from your symptoms that you will need surgical decompression, but nothing can be conclusively said without MRI images. Please mention your diabetic and cardiac profile too.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Thank you for providing images (attachment removed to protect patient identity). Your MRI shows that the disc, which had prolapsed, is causing compression on your nerve roots. No need to worry. We have a few modalities of treatment at our disposal.

First, I would like to know a few things from you: do you have any weakness or loss of power in your arm? Did you feel any difficulty in holding a pen or a spoon? And have you undergone any conservative treatment? Conservative treatment includes cervical traction, physiotherapy, short-wave diathermy, cervical collar, analgesics, and muscle relaxants.

I would like to give you a course of two weeks of conservative treatment and observe your response. Even if there is a 10 percent relief, I will continue with the same treatment. Surgical treatment is the last resort if all the above treatment fails. I have many patients who have had similar complaints and have improved with conservative treatment.

Your blood reports are within normal limits, so even if you need surgery, you can proceed. Surgical procedure involves removing the disc, and it has an excellent prognosis. Recent trends are towards keyhole surgery with minimal incision.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.