Health DescriptionHealth Consultation Description: I am 55 years old. I have been diagnosed with
Cervical Spondylosis due to wear and tear on my dehydrated spinal discs. My pain is in my neck and arm. I have occasional fever and night sweats. I am already using a cervical collar for a week now. I am using hard collar during the day and soft collar at night. I am undergoing physiotherapy which includes infrared ray treatment and neck traction. Until two weeks ago, I used to swim 30 minutes a day for five days of a week. However, the biggest challenge I am facing now is my left arm. My left arm is so weak and stiff. I cannot raise my left arm up and across while sitting. It can be done only when I am lying down. I had chronic fatigue syndrome about 10 years ago and recovered significantly. My current medication includes Lyrica 75 mg, Tramadol BP 50 mg and Clofenac 50 mg. Could you give an indication how long my recovery will take?
Expert ReplyCondition analysis:
Sorry to hear about your condition. Your symptoms match with the diagnosis of cervical spondylosis.
Unfortunately, along with neck pain and arm pain you also seem to have developed weakness of your left arm due to pressure on your nerves in the neck.
Physiotherapy is a reasonable option, but you should also consult a neurosurgeon since arm weakness has to be treated early else it may become irreversible if left alone for a long time.
The neurosurgeon may also get an MRI of your cervical spine to locate the cause and site of your symptoms in a precise manner. Wish you a speedy recovery.
Instructions:
Hot and Cold Compresses: Another easy way to deal with neck pain due to cervical spondylosis is alternating hot and cold compresses on the affected area. Hot compresses will improve blood circulation and relax sore muscles. Cold compresses will reduce swelling and inflammation.
-- To make the hot compress, wrap a hot water bag in a thin towel.
-- To make the cold compress, wrap a few ice cubes in a thin towel.
-- Place the hot compress on the affected area for 2 to 3 minutes.
-- Remove it and apply the cold compress for 1 minute.
-- Repeat the process for 15 to 20 minutes.
-- Follow this simple remedy a few times daily until you get relief.
Note: Do not apply hot compresses if the affected area is red and irritated. Avoid cold compresses if you have circulatory problems.
![Diseases, Symptoms, tcm, [tcmwindow.com]](/uploadFile/adImg/2015/11/11/f5cbfcc0-4df5-4646-9b9a-f316651a0199.jpg)