unable to create/save new contacts

I am currently using iOS 11.2. I have had several friends send me their contact card as well as those from others. I am unable to save new or update existing. The only way I have been able to add new contexts is through my external email account that is connected to my phone. Is there a work around for this? Or is there a way to fix so that I am able to save and or update contact info from my phone?

*I have tried adding contacts manually in the phone app, as well as "add contact" from a contact card from text messages.

*I have also tried "add to existing contact" and then "update"

None of these functions allow me to update.

My phone is synced to iCloud.

Thanks!