Neck and Arm Pain: When to See a Neurologist

Lower back pain and arm pain?

Hello doctor, my classmates and I often play basketball together, but recently I've been experiencing more soreness in my arms and neck, especially when I wake up.
My lower back and arms feel achy, and in hot weather, it seems like I easily get heat exhaustion, feeling dizzy and bloated.
I went for gua sha treatment, and my skin became quite painful and red over a large area, but the condition hasn't fully improved.
Should I see a doctor, and can I consult a neurologist?

sun, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/19

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology

For lower back pain, rest, heat therapy, and massage are recommended.
If there is no improvement, consider visiting a neurology clinic for a physical examination.

Reply Date: 2005/04/19

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding neck and arm pain, especially after engaging in physical activities like basketball. It sounds like you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that could be related to muscle strain, nerve irritation, or even systemic issues, particularly given your mention of dizziness and feeling overheated.

First, let’s break down your symptoms. The neck and arm pain you describe, particularly after physical exertion, could be indicative of muscle strain or tension. This is common among individuals who engage in sports or activities that require repetitive motions, such as basketball. The soreness you feel upon waking could be due to poor sleeping posture or inadequate support for your neck and back during sleep.

However, the additional symptoms you mentioned, such as dizziness and feeling like you might be overheating, warrant further attention. Dizziness can sometimes be related to neck issues, particularly if there is any compression of the cervical spine or irritation of the nerves that supply the head and neck. It can also be a sign of dehydration or heat exhaustion, especially if you are playing sports in hot weather without adequate hydration.

The fact that you have tried treatments like scraping (gua sha) and experienced pain and redness suggests that there may be underlying inflammation or irritation in the muscles or soft tissues of your neck and shoulders. While these treatments can provide temporary relief, they may not address any deeper issues that could be present.

Given your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. A neurologist could be a good option, especially if you are concerned about nerve involvement. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a neurological examination, to determine if there are any signs of nerve compression or other neurological issues. They may also recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to assess the cervical spine and surrounding structures.

Additionally, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to see a physical therapist. They can provide exercises and stretches tailored to your condition, which can help alleviate pain and improve mobility. They can also assess your posture and movement patterns to identify any contributing factors to your discomfort.

In summary, while some of your symptoms may be related to muscle strain from physical activity, the combination of neck pain, arm pain, dizziness, and feelings of overheating suggests that a more comprehensive evaluation is warranted. Seeing a neurologist is a good step, as they can help rule out any serious conditions and guide you toward appropriate treatment options. If necessary, they may refer you to other specialists, such as an orthopedic doctor or a physical therapist, for further management.

In the meantime, consider taking measures to manage your symptoms, such as ensuring proper hydration, practicing good sleep hygiene, and using heat or cold therapy to relieve muscle tension. Avoiding activities that exacerbate your symptoms until you have a clearer understanding of the underlying cause is also advisable.
Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!

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