Hello I Recently Coughed And Put My Neck Out (happened

Hello
I recently coughed and put my neck out (happened before) so I just thought I would have a stiff neck for a day or two, but as time went on (1 month now) i have severe pain in my neck and down my right arm, I'm assuming it's nerve pain as it's like electricity shooting down constantly. I went to an Orthopaedic Surgeon who suggested I get an MRI as he suspects an impingement in my C6/C7. Unfortunately my Medical Aid doesn't cover an MRI and it's just too expensive for me to pay for. So I went to see a physiotherapist and a spinologist, this did not help with the severity of the pain and I am now at a loss. The Orthopaed said ONLY and MRI can establish exactly what the problem is. I am now on strong pain killers, anti inflammatories and Cortisone, I have also invested in a home traction unit which I think helps as the pain is not as severe when I wake up, but does worsen during the day. Is there anymore "effective" treatment I can consider or is an MRI essential, are there no other tests to establish what the problem may be in my neck? I would really appreciate your input as I'm in agony every day.
Many thanks
Kaz