My TOS :
Hi. It's sure nice to finally find somewhere that validates(?) my pain and frustration. My first symptoms began to appear about 6 years ago, but I never went to dr. about them as I hate being a complainer, and it all seemed so minor - burning pain between shoulder blades, stiff and sore neck and shoulders. I was told I had fibrmyalgia, and then tendonitis in my shoulders, but never did anyone tell me what I could do about it all. Finally, in 2002, I went to get some help because the pain was increasing, my hands were getting numb and tingly, headaches that were unbearable. I was referred to a specialist, who whipped in, sent my for a test where I was manipulated while a moniter was on specific pulse points. It was discovered that though the pain was worse on the right side, the left side was where the pulse decreased sooner - was finally told it was TOS. Specialist suggested many tests but neglected to schedule any of them except physio. Attended physio for some 5 months, and finally PT wrote my gp that she could do nothing for me, recommended valium for my stress, and that was that!!! Thank God for a long time gp who knows I HATE taking pills, and valium was definately out. Of course there is a lot of stress - I am a gramma raising 3 boys, can't work (was told to take 3 weeks off - that was 2 years ago), in pain every day and stubborn to the point where I will probably regret it. I have "good" days and suffer for 3 or 4 after because I do to much whenever I can to try and stay on top of things. I thought I was crazy when peeling potatoes became such a chore, and I thought I was just out of practice when I noted that my typing was slowing down, and mistakes were more frequent. Anyways, I finally got my gp to refer me for a CT Scan adn pain management at least, as well as more physio, so I am still working on it. Will update as things progress. Good Luck to us all - and keep chins up.
None.