I am 56-years old and about 10-years ago, after visiting my doctor with neck and lower back pain, I was diagnosed with arthritis of the spine - with degeneration and spurs both at the top of the cervical vertibrae and in the lumber region. I had a bit of physiotherapy and was prescribed painkillers and I have coped OK since.

A few months ago, I noticed that I was having minor problems typing, occasionally striking wrong keys on my computer keyboard and this has become worse since. I thought no more of it.

A couple of weeks ago, I noticed that, every morning, my fingers/hands were numb, especially in the morning after waking. This morning, I had bad neck ache and was unable to get comfortable in bed. My hands were both very numb - the right worse than the left, but both hands affected and there was significant tingling in my fingers. Throughout today, both my arms have been aching and the numbness has not gone away.

I am a bit worried because, when she was in her late 50s, my mother was diagnosed with cervical spondylotic myelopathy and this, in combination with severe arthritis, eventually made her virtually paraplegic, completely incontinent and unable to dress or even feed herself. She died three years ago, at the age of 86, extremely disabled and feeble. At no time was she offered surgery - her spinal column was said to be extremely narrow and that was congenital.

My wife says i should see my doctor but I really don't like bothering him unless it is something serious. Any information, suggestions or advice would be most welcome.

Thanks,

Bisones