What could this pain mean?

Well it could be a number of things but let's start with two for now. You could have a herniated disk in your neck or upper back (cervical and/or lower lumbar area) or yes, you could have nerve damage. You can also have both. you may have nerve damage without realizing how or why or you could have nerve damage due to the possible disk issue. I'm not a doctor or an R.N but I get the same symptoms in my left leg; have for years, and an MRI showed that I have a herniated disk and subsequently sciatica due to that condition. So I believe you may have sciatica and/or a herniated disk, both of which can be serious if left untreated for too long. Not to mention the horrific pain that accompanies it. I'm not sure what state you are from but I'm sure there are free or low- cost clinics for people in your situation. God bless your husband for doing what he can. It may feel better at the time or right after the mage but it could possibly damage or do more damage to the area. Try to find a free or low- cost clinic to go to to have this checked, diagnosed and treated or if you can't take it anymore simply go to the Emergency Room. Medical staff treat things like this all of the time and not only can they make you feel better- possibly- but they can also refer you to an institution that you can afford or that is free. However it is done please just get it looked at by a doctor. An M.D, not a chiropractor. Let me know what happens and if I helped at all. Sorry you are dealing with this but in this day and age you shouldn't have to suffer, especially from something that is a mystery to you. Good luck.