Question

49 yo M is evaluated for a 2 day history of posterior neck stiffness and pain that radiates down his left arm and into his 4th and 5th fingers of his L hand. Left handed and works as a roofer.Most appropriate management?

Answer 1

The most appropriate management for a 49-year-old male with posterior neck stiffness and pain that radiates down his left arm is a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause. Management options may include rest, pain medication, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or surgery if conservative measures are ineffective.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate management for a 49-year-old male experiencing posterior neck stiffness and pain that radiates down his left arm and into his 4th and 5th fingers is to perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of these symptoms. Given the patient's occupation as a roofer, it is important to assess for any potential spinal or nerve injuries that may have occurred as a result of his work. The symptoms described could be indicative of cervical radiculopathy or a herniated disc in the neck.

Management options may include:

1. Rest and pain management with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
2. Physical therapy exercises to strengthen the neck and upper back muscles, improve posture, and reduce pain.
3. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
4. If conservative measures fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be necessary to address the underlying cause, such as a herniated disc.