Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 6/12/2009

Question
had neck fusion c3-7 3 months ago now i am having problems with the left arm i can not raise the arm above the shoulder,x-rays and mri are not showing any damage to the shoulder,whats the problem???????

Answer
Without an actual hands on exam, it is a little difficult to say for sure.  But, I would venture a guess there is pinching at the nerve root at the spine itself,  pressure on the group of nerves (cervical/brachial plexus) that travels into the arm, or a frozen shoulder.  This can lead to immobility in the shoulder, and can be corrected quite easily.  Testing should include an EMG to see if there is nerve pressure and muscle testing to see if there is undue spasm.