Hello, I am a 57 year old male who has exercised all my life. I look much younger and my energy level is not much different than 25 years ago actually. Candidly, I have probably had some level of denial about the aging process in general. 2 months ago I was having pain in my upper back and radiating pain down my right arm. I had been swimming roughly 2 miles a day, 4 to 5 days per week using an improper breathing technique and I was also doing flip turns incorrectly. The combination of these improper techniques probably exasperated the condition I learned of shortly thereafter.
I had an MRI in mid February in response to this pain and the results showed that I have spinal cord compression at C-4-C-5 with an abnormal cord signal. I have seen two surgeons, one an Orthopedic spine surgeon and the other a Nuerosurgeon and neither recommended surgery because I have no motor function issues. They did agree that I have a congenitally small spinal passage way. My Spine Rhab physician says I have slight indications of myelopathy such as a positive Hoffman's sign and strength of a 4 in some areas. I have changed my swimming technique and I now have almost no pain in my neck and the pain in my arm is virtually gone as well 90% of the time? I now have more of a tightness in my right deltoid from time to time depending on my neck position. I have made other lifestyle changes as well, mostly dealing with how I move my neck. I occasionally have tingling in my hands, or feet; yet it is usually when I have been sitting on my foot for example, or putting pressure on a part of my body. Now that I have this diagnosis, I find myself trying to evaluate whatever sensations I have. The reality is besides the occasional tightness in my neck and arm, I feel as good as ever. My concern is obviously the MRI, no one is recommending surgery they are just telling me to let them know if I begin to have problems using my hands, or walking etc. they say if those sympotoms begin I will need surgery. I feel much better than I did 2 months ago; yet I am worried about the potential loss of Nuerological functions. I am continuing to swim 2 miles, or so 4 days a week and I feel best after swimming. I also am seeing a PT for neck exercises. I know have the negative potentials of cord compression, an abnormal signal and a small spinal passageway hanging over my mentality, even though physically I feel as good as ever. I believe I have had the pain in my neck and arm on and off for years following a collision I had playing basketball 25 years ago. Does anyone have any suggestions, or insight of any type. Thank you

Ragnar,

It is great to have you come and be with us. You will fine a great number of dear friends to listen when you are in need of ears. Please let us know how we can help you out. You will find out we are supportive and relaxing place.

I see you have found the Spinal Disorders & Back Pain, there are a great number of friends to assist you there.

Please keep us up to date on your condition. Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Darlene