Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 11/3/2008

Question
QUESTION: I'm a 59 year old male not in best of shape. 5'11" 270 lbs. 1 month ago I lifted a 24' extension ladder and hung it on the wall. I did struggle with it to the point that it took 2 trys to get it. I had no pain and 2 days later I even went for a 150 mile motorcycle ride with no pain except in my butt and my right hand which had to be rested often. Then 2 days later I woke up with severe upper arm and wrist pain and severe numbness in fingers. The wrists and fingers very bad when I use them. Both arms hurt but usually more severe on right side. With the 4 day delay in symptoms I started researching web and found that a blood pressure med (HYDRALAZINE)I was on for years causes Drug Induced LUPUS with long term use so I mentioned it to my MD and we discontinued it. It's been another week with no change so I'm starting to think maybe I just injured myself but with no symptoms for 4 days. My legs are muscles are sore too lately but maybe that's because I've been sitting more because of the arms. Please give me your thoughts and advice. Thanks

ANSWER: I sounds as if, in the process of lifting, you caused a strain in the upper back/neck area.  The result is the pain you are experiencing along with the numbness.  The lower back pain may be caused by a strain of the Psoas muscles.  Riding the motorcycle would have aggravated it, as well as sitting around because of the arms.  Since you are being treated medically, I would suggest seeking out a good chiropactor.  They should be able to asses the condition, treat it, and set you on a rehab program to help strengthen the areas in question.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I thank you for your advice however I want to make it clear that I don't have any back, shoulder or neck pain. Only from the arm sockets down and since first posting I woke after a nap with my ring and pinky finger dead, not numb but totally paralyzed and they were kicked out at a weird angle. I wasn't laying on them wrong. I moved my arm a little and they came back. This stuff has been going on for about 35 days. I guess my question is: is your gut feeling that this is medically internal or merely strained something 35 days ago with 4 day delay, no back, neck or shoulder pain. I hate to say it but my MD is not very good. Thanks again.

Answer
Unfortunately, without a face to face exam, it is hard to tell exactly.  Also, again unfortunately, a problem at the spine does not necessarily equate pain in that area.  You may only feel the radiating pain.  But, a good chiropractor should be able to narrow it down, and if necessary, make a referral back to your MD.