[giddik]

Just got back from ortho doc at Duke University. He has been treating me for a frozen shoulder for a little over a year. I went today because the pain has returned and this time my arm has also gone numb. After x-rays of my neck, he told me that I have a bone spur on my spine in my neck. I have been referred to a non-operative spine ortho doc. I see him Aug. 14.

Does anyone have any suggestions of what to expect or any experience with bone spurs causes numbness?

Thanks for any help!!
Judy, numb and in PAIN!!!

[Dr. Smith]

Hi Judy, Welcome.

If you have one bone spur (a.k.a. osteophytes) chances are you have many. Most people do -- they're a part of the aging process -- but most don't cause problems; obviously, some do.

If you have a pain journal, bring that. If not, you may want to start one, with information to help the doctor help you. Google: pain journal for some samples/templates or create/modify your own.

If you have had any imaging done, bring it with you, or have it sent ahead by whoever has it, along with any other pertinent records/testing. The ortho may request more. S/he'll look at your records/imaging, examine you, evaluate, and may offer some options, beginning with physical therapy. If you've BT--DT, try it again. All physical therapists are not created equal; some have more knowledge/experience in different areas (two that I saw struck out; the third did me some good). It has been suggested that surgery, in many cases, produces no better results than physical therapy. Google: physical therapy vs surgery

The orthopedist may also try steroid injections to reduce any inflammation. IME, these either work fairly quickly (within a few days, though the first couple may actually be worse) or not at all. They may also refer you to Pain Management or to a surgeon. Surgery should only be considered as an absolute last resort after all other therapies have been tried & failed, and still only after multiple opinions. Hopefully, things won't come to that, but if it's suggested, come back here to the Spinal Disorders & Back Pain Forum.

There are some articles on what to expect on your first visit; most seem to be written by orthopedic practices, but by perusing a few, you should be able to get a pretty good idea.
Google: first visit orthopedist

Doc