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Pinched nerve in upper back

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I think I have a pinched nerve in my upper,right side of back.I have fire feelings, and very sharp radiating pain in that area.I also feel pains in left chest area. I have lost partial use of my right hand. I cant write very well at all,cant put enough pressure to hold the pen to hold it right. Cant make a fist,when I try my hand automatically bends backward. I cant zip my pants,cant open a bottle of water,cant sleep due to the severe pain shooting in my back and shoulder, cant squeeze anything with right hand. I do have feeling through out the hand though. I work in Afghanistan and am unable to see a doctor until 04-Mar-14.I do remember about 1 1/2 weeks ago I coughed real hard and thats when I felt something go wrong, but the real pain started the next day and has not stopped.can you maybe tell me what is going on. I have been stretching in a hot shower to try and relieve pain, it helps for about 30mins.can you advise on some exercise or any advise to eleviate some of the pain.

Category: Neurologist, Medical

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Dr. Sudhir Kumar
Category: Pediatric Neurologist
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Expert:  Dr. Sudhir Kumar
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Hi,

Thank you for posting your query at DoctorSpring.com.

I agree with you that the most likely cause for your symptoms could be a pinched nerve in the neck and upper back.

This could cause neck pain, pain in the arms, weakness and numbness in arms, and hands.

The diagnosis can be confirmed by doing MRI scan of the cervical spine region.

Initial treatment would be with medications such as pregabalin or gabapentin capsules for relief of nerve pain, and physiotherapy.

In physiotherapy, traction, IFT and ultrasound would help in relieving pain.

I hope it helps. Please get back if you have any more queries.

Best wishes,

Dr. Sudhir Kumar MD (Medicine), DM (Neurology)
Senior Consultant Neurologist


Patient replied :

if it is a pinched nerve,how long would it usually take to heal on its own with no medical treatment?


Expert:  Dr. Sudhir Kumar
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Hi,

Thank you for getting back.

If it is a pinched nerve, it takes about 4-6 weeks of time to heal with medical treatment. Without medical treatment, it may take longer than that.

Best wishes,

Dr. Sudhir Kumar MD (Medicine), DM (Neurology)

Dr. Sudhir Kumar
Category: Pediatric Neurologist
Experience: 
Senior Residency, Fellowship: DM, Neurology, CMC, Vellore, 2001
Junior Residency: MD, Internal Medicine, CMC, Vellore, 1998
Medical School: MBBS, Christian Medical College, Vellore, 1995
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