omg KLS, I am very sorry that you've got a return to symptoms...

I've never gotten well, so I have never had that problem. I am so sorry about it...that's got to be really frustrating and upsetting.

Hey, as for the problems with work comp, all I can say is do not give up. Get a team of docs, a team of reports, and get it to hearing. Appeal it. Since you've had a period of rehabilitation, full time or even part time employment, at least in CA, that is a good fight for a new claim (and bona fide need) for new treatment and additional permanent disability.

I know that in my case, they are hoping I just die off.

I know from my actual work experience that they hope people give up their cases and they try to starve them out. I've had to "carefully" argue with my old adjusters to get them to see the light on a person who deserved care and convince them it was not a fraud or hoax for more money...I remember many times how the adjusters would act irrationally, and as if they were having to pay for the medical care themselves. They never, ever put themselves in the position of "what if it were me?" (Later I had an adjuster call me at home with TOS symptoms.)

Don't let them get away with it, KLS. Also, don't forget that if you're off work for a year (or will be) that you need to get your social security application going (online) and also appeal that if necessary with an attorney. Do not give up on that one either. Mine took 2 1/2 years, but did get approved.

As for the statistics and prevention of these injuries / illness, I am concerned for the young people's generation. I wonder how many of them will develop this. And I haven't seen an article yet warning anyone. I've written to many different agencies, but still, no big warning, (although the new disclaimers on certain keyboards.) I've written to Bill Gates Foundation, also.

Excuse me for getting off topic. Me sorry.

Actually, they're not denying this is a new claim, at least not yet. The BIG problem is in getting decent medical treatment in this state and getting paid TTD.....I turned down a temp job that would have lasted for 3 weeks back in November because I am physically unable to drive 45 miles each way in my present condition.

Can't answer about the surgery.
Another thing...some have TOS from cervical rib and others do not have that anomaly but have TOS. Removal may be enough to cure you.
Ergonomics with a computer are important regardless of symptoms. Google proper computer posture for a start.

Hey Roger, I am the dope who drove from NJ to FL with only a little help!! guilty as charged. My surgeon, Dr. Togut was not very happy with me. I am one of the few 'CURED" patients. TOS does not have a hight rate of great outcomes. It does depend on the patient.

My TOS was caused by a medical procedure which the staff did something wrong while I was under anesthesia.

My surgery was successful in that after surgery, I was in pain for almost 1 year but then completely pain free until last spring. As Tam said, I stressed my neck, shouldersl, and all the normal TOS trigger points and Now I am Back!! I am doing well but I know what Tam was saying is - Don't Screw Up!. After surgery you MUST do everything that you are told No deviation from doctor's orders. If you do not need surgery, GREAT, just follow all orders and your body! Change the way you do things to minimize any strain you can put on your body.

I wish you the best, I believe we can all obtain the best outcome if we listen to our inner body and our doctors. Do not lift heavy objects, move a couch, anything that can cause extra pain. Linda

Posts 1 & 2 in our useful stickys has ergonomics info plus a lot more varied info in the rest of the thread -
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/thread84.html

Hi Roger.....

I haven't had surgery, so I have no words of wisdom for recovery..........just wanted to say "Hi" and welcome to Neurotalk.

My best suggestion is voice recognition software!