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I'm a 31 year old male and have been in great health prior to the past 18 months. I am currently an active duty soldier in the army and cannot seem to get any help form the doctors to what is causing my issues. It initially started with severe back and neck pain which would cause numbness and tingling to my arms and hands. My back would spasms non stop and have shooting pains throughout I would also have shooting pains down my right leg all the way down to my right foot. My left shoulder swells up to the point I can barely move it. I also have severe depression and anxiety issues since the onset of the pain symptoms. Throughout these 18 months I've also have had constant headaches which I would cause dizziness, blurred vision, nausea and stomach issues. I have had troubles sleeping and wake up in so much pain some days from my back being so stiff and I am so fatigued throughout the day. I've have so many other issues I can't even remember them all. The severity of my symptoms come and go over the months but with any type of physical active really sets my back pain off.

I've had MRI's on my C-spine and T-spine which show mild degenerative disc disease which the docs say shouldn't cause my issue. Which they tell me that nothing is wrong with me and its all in my head. I've been to physical therapy, chiropractor, acupuncture, tripper point injections, all types of labs done with all normal levels and all kinds of medications to try and help my pain. I am currently taking Cymbalta which was described by my therapist to help with my pain. I don't get much pain relief but it does help with my anxiety problems a bit.

My PCM has finally referred me to a Nuerologist to try and figure out my issues hopefully. So what I am wanting from you guys on here is any type of help or info about your symptoms or suggestions that could help me get a diagnosis. Also if you have any suggests for what I should ask the Doctor when I see them next week. I just want to have my life back or have answers to why I cannot do the things I use to.

I would recommend asking about Lyme Disease. I hear that the side effects can take years after the bite before they present themselves in people.

Hi Kafeman,

This will seem like a long shot to you but you might find it useful to identify any micronutrient deficiencies/imbalances. Can you have your b12 (numbness, tingling), magnesium (spasticity, cramping, vitamin d metabolism), zinc/copper (immune and sensory issues, strange feeling head for me too but never described elsewhere), and vitamin d (it's all the rage these days...lol) levels tested? I know I'm forgetting a couple but that's a good start. For more explanation as to why those levels might be important and a more complete list of what to test, check Jimmylegs' thread in the regimens board. It's loaded with good info that is applicable to far more than just multiple sclerosis.

I hope you find answers soon. You've come to a great place for help.