Loss of muscle tone is a big culprit, but exersise is out of the question. Your doctor may be willing to give you MS Contin rather than the pill that makes you a criminal. I take Gabapentin 600 x4 and it helps with radiatiing pain. I also have a disc pushing on my spinal cord. I spend many nights sleeping in a chair. Does your hurting arm somtimes make you hand feel on fire? I will not get surgery until the last possible moment. Bacoflen is a good muscle relaxent at night and 4 x 60mg MS Contin plus 4 x 10/325 breakthrough Percocet seem to work well. I have to do any computer work right after medicating; It even hurts to read a book and driving will cause bad flare ups. You cant take Celebrex for 3 or more years. Celebrex did not bother me at first but the Doc took me off before it caused ulcers. With regard to the shoulder pain you may have Bursitus and need a shot in the Bursa sacks. I also get big time shots in my cervical spine at least 2 times a year. They knock me out for a little while 10min and shoot in cortisone or some kiind of steroid. It sometimes takes 2 or 3 rounds of shots to get things going, but they work. Good luck ! And go to a "Pain Management Specialist" that takes insurance. No cash "Pill Mills".