Hi Dabbo,

Sounds like you are really on top of it in terms of everything you are trying to manage your pain..... probably far ahead of where I was at that stage in the game! I think you're onto something about heading to Denver though - that is something I would really, really encourage you to do as soon as you possibly can get an appointment with one or maybe even two of the Denver Docs of your choice. The reason I say that is because I cannot describe how good it feels to go see one of the experts and definitively know (or not) what is wrong with you. Not to say your current Doc isn't on top of it, it's just that the Denver guys - this is all they do. You can really get some clarity on what is going on, feel confident about your treatment plan, etc.

Don't worry that if you go out there you'll be pressured into surgery - most of them agree that surgery for TOS is the treatment of last resort (unless of course it something clear cut like cervical ribs or life-threatening venous or arterial involvement); but you will be laying the groundwork for surgery as a potential future option if conservative measures don't work.

As for other things to try, hmmmm... the only other thing I can think to add to your list is something called Feldenkrais. It was suggested to me by my surgeon, Dr. Sanders. Feldenkrais can sort of be described as retraining your body mechanics to work more properly, for instance using your arms as levers like a machine and things like that. It was somewhat helpful to me in helping me gain functionality, but not so much in reducing pain. Anyways, there are Feldenkrais practitioners who can teach you Feldenkrais through group classes or private sessions - not sure how available it might be in your area - I went to some classes but what I found more helpful was ordering a CD that I could do it home and not have to drive anywhere (since driving hurts!). The CD I have is specific to arms and hands but I forget what it's called; I can try to find it (I'm sure it's somewhere around the house here) if you'd like to know more.

Good Luck Dabbo! You sound like such a sweet, funny young man