Just been chatting to my chiropractor.

My x-ray from 2.5 years ago show that there's some elongation of C7 on both sides and it looks more pronounced on the right side (where I am more symptomatic).

It does look like the C7 is longer than T1, but my spine also curves to the right so it's hard to tell if it looks exagerated due to the angle.

She did tell me it's one of those things that can be just a variation and not cause symptoms.

So, does anyone think this is cause for more investigation or is it likely I'm going down the wrong path (again)?

Thanks everyone.

It's so hard to tell some details with only a xray for information.
If it is fairly obvious on the xray then a follow up with MRI might be the next step, also it would help to rule out other possibles for pain & symptoms.
Have you had any MRI at all yet?
I think with those they are able to do more precise measurements and probably a better image of what might be going on.

But if Insurance or costs are a factor, then I guess it depends on how bad your pain & symptoms are, If it is worth pursuing /pushing for the MRI or not.

I also have an elongated C7 transverse process on what has become my symptomatic side. It was found about 4 years ago but they told me to just be aware of it and that I might end up becoming symptomatic. I have become symptomatic and tested positive (EMG) for ulnar nerve issues a few months ago.

Was told the same thing when you become symptomatic does that area swell up on you?
When I am in a flare or have done too much right at the base of my neck swells up and I get a hump there other times it will go down but lately that is rare.

Thanks Andismom

Yes, both side are swollen and solid most of the time. I'm noticing more problems with my left side lately and that is currently more enlarged.

I've had MRIs for other reasons but not one to look specifically for TOS or cervical rib as yet, just an old x-ray to go on at the moment.

My symptoms are pretty bad in terms of pain - currently trying to make contact with someone in my area that could do more imaging for me.

Just reaching that stage where I am fed up of having scans and tests for various things and being told everything is normal... I'm sure you've all been there.

Does anyone know if having enlongated C7 could in *any way* causes cognitive problems?

Thanks again everyone.

[Imaging Assessment of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Bone Abnormalities

Skeletal and bone abnormalities include cervical ribs, elongated transverse process of C7, exostosis of the first rib or clavicle, and excessive callus of the clavicle or first rib.

and a bit more down the page
Elongated Transverse Process of C7.—A C7 transverse process is considered elongated if it extends beyond the tip of the T1 process immediately below it, as seen on cervical radiographs (Fig 9). Like a cervical rib, an elongated C7 transverse process can lead either directly or indirectly to neurovascular compression, in association with a fibrous band or an abnormal middle scalene muscle. ]
http://radiographics.rsna.org/content/26/6/1735.full



I don't know if the C7 issue will cause cognitive problems , but I do know spasms can affect the vertebral artery by pulling on it.
I definitely had some major cog function issues for awhile.
I was also on Lipitor during that same time frame and stopped it at the same time as I got some very good PT- so i can't 100% say which one or what % of the cog fog was TOS or Lipitor caused.

Thanks for the reply and links Jo, very interesting.

My C7 was definitely longer than the T1 but I think I would want to make double sure with some new images.

Tried contacting a specialist ... just waiting to hear back. Seems to take forever doesn't it?

I'm so sorry you are having all these problems.... I have been through all the testing it all comes back fine also... except for Nerve conduction studies
and Lordosis of neck and kyphosis and my neck is soewhat twisted.
I have never been told that anything can be done about this.
Chirocare did not help.... I just live with it. PODUNK DRs here. Nothing else I can do at this time.

I hope you can get better care.

Andismom

Sorry to hear that Andismom - seems to be a much overlooked and disputed condition doesn't it?

I have an appointment with a specialist next week.

Fingers crossed I can at least get some good imaging of the area done.