Hi all:

Just a brief intro - I'm Sandi, in CA. I've been dealing with RSIs in both arms for more than 10 years, and an active WC claim with "bilateral tendonitis" since 2000.

My most recent doc says I have TOS, even though that's not an "accepted syndrome" in the WC diagnosis manual.

I've had 16 sessions of PT since November, and I'm using foam rollers, an exercise ball, and a "rib immobilizer" to target the tension in my neck and shoulders.

I'm also on micro-dosages of Elavil (10 mg daily) which has helped with the chronic pain, as intended.

I still have fatigue, pain, tension, numbness, tingling, pins & needles, and problems with gripping. I've hired a yard guy, a housekeeper, have my groceries delivered, try to have massages 2x a month, and I cope. Better than I used to, when depression was a problem.

I had xrays in November, which also showed evidence of degeneration and arthritis. Last month, I had my first MRI, which showed moderate osteoarthritis, disc degeneration, and a "shadow" at C5-C6 that "impinges but does not compress" my spine at that location.

It's been 9 days, and still no further word on the shadow; no idea what it is, what it could be, and no return phone calls or written report.

I'll post more later, but if anyone has any experience with vague reports with MRIs and "shadows" and what they turned out to be, I'd be appreciative.

Sandi

hi i am suffering from syrngomyleia. i am 30 now, had a very active and sound life till 26. but then docs detected this . from being a sportsperson i am a totaly dependent man now. can walk with help but that will also go one day. right side is very week. have imbalance. but i am not ready to accept defeat. i now this problem cant be cured but i dnt want to fizz out . wnat to do sumthng constructive. may be get good friens like u will help, i hope we are in contact in future.
maneet
maneet2308@yahoo.com

Hi sandi - i hope you have found your way to our WC & TOS forums - many of us started out with RSI and comp claims
some are still in comp process and our therapy topics and links will apply to RSI or TOS symptoms in most cases.

TOS forum link-
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forumdisplay.php?f=24
WC forum-
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forumdisplay.php?f=30

Hi Jo, thanks for the welcome.

Yes, I've been browsing the TOS and RSi forums, and it makes me grateful that I've been aggressively pursuing treatment and balance. I'm in pain, but not as much as I was. When I read other posts, I can totally relate - 'cause I can see going there EASILY if I'm not vigilant about not over-doing things.

It's silly - things like bringing in groceries from the car, pushing a cart at Costco, dragging luggage through the airport, carrying a heavy purse, painting (gripping AND overhead - deadly!) are all problems, and all things I limit or pace.

Early on, I resisted the accommodations, telling myself I "should" be able to do these things easily, or without pain. Now, I'd rather eke out more time in a relaxed state, instead of an inflamed one. The "wussy factor" is higher than ever.

Things that have helped: thyroid meds; exercise and weight loss; elavil; stretching & massage; jacuzzi (wet heat); PT; not driving with my hair in a ponytail (it moved my head forward away from the seat, and increased tension and pain); having my books on two lap pillows to minimize extension and holding...

It's a journey...d*mmit.

Sandi