Question
Just over two years ago I moved something with my left arm and shoulder that was too heavy. A minute or so after that, I felt an electric shock in my chest that lasted 2 or 3 seconds. I have had chronic pain in my chest and shoulder and now back since that time. I did have my heart checked out and they said that whatever it was, it was not my heart. I have seen a couple of regular doctors who didn't seem to understand how much pain this causes me and didn't want to order an MRI. If I use my left arm and shoulder much, I suffer greatly. It is now having an impact on my sleep---and since I work on a computer most of the day, it is difficult. I took some predisone for a week or so recently which improved my symptoms--but I know about the downside of that drug, so I didn't want to take it on a regular basis. The pain comes from my sternum area and goes all the way through into my back and then in my shoulder. I suspect also some arthritis in my back and neck. A lot of the pain is also in my shoulder blade area.  Any tips on what I can do?  If I tore the muscle from the sternum, would the 2 year amount of time since it has happened make it too late to do anything about that? If I need to see a specialist, what kind would I see?Thanks.

Answer
David

I know this is going to sound crazy to you, but have your doctor check your vitamin D level.  I began having pain in my arms and shoulders and sternum a few years ago and one of my doctors told me that I needed to exercise with free weights to build up muscle strength.  The pain did not go away and sometimes it felt as if my shoulder was coming out of joint.

My doctor decided to do a vitamin D level and it was found that I was vitamin D deficient.  My levels were almost non existant.  I have been on prescribed supplements for two months and the pain is gone.  In your case, it may be as easy as that.

The next thing you need to do is see an orthopedist and have that MRI done.  It may be that an X ray does not show the extent of the damage.  An MRI would show damage.  Then lastly look into some type of neurologist to ensure that you have not suffered nerve damage.

Hope this helps.

Sharon Davis