Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 2/24/2009

Question
On memorial day 2008 I got excruciating pain on the top of my right shoulder following 5 days of a low grade fever. The dr. told me that the antibodies attacked my thoracic nerve instead of whatever caused the fever (sinus infection) He did a nerve conduction study. He told me that it should heal on it's own but needed to "regrow" and since it was the longest nerve in your body that it will take 6 months to 2 years to do so. It's still not healed but I can lift my arm over my head without assistance now.
I am 52 and love to lift weights. I'm finding it very frustrating that it is taking so long to heal. My question is, is there anything at all that will speed up this process or if I lift weights will it damage it further?
Someone suggest acupuncture, will that help?
Thanks so much

Answer
Hello Phyllis,

   I have never heard of this happening before (which does not mean it can not).  That is not the longest nerve in the body. You may want to see a Doctor of Chiropractic as they specialize in the biomechanics of the spine, muscles, ligaments, and all joints of the body.  Nerves can become impinged at the vertebrea/spine or along there route through muscles, across joints, or by scar tissue.  A Doctor of Chiropractic will be able to determine the area of impingement and may help reduce the pressure on the nerve speeding healing time.

Have a great day,
Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.