I know we have these suggestions scattered around the posts and threads.

One of the members asked if we could get all of the tips & suggestions collected into a single thread and then make it a sticky.
I thought it sounded like a good idea.

I also plan to redo the useful sticky thread one of these days, to condense and organize it, so if you notice changes happening there- it's just me.

So when you have time or when you think of helpful suggestions and tips for staying as comfortable as possible with TOS please add them to this thread.

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These are things I use the most now

Yoga type padded mat
- for stretching/laying out on the floor

Foam roll/cylinder or Inflatable exercise ball
- lay over both ways for stretching of spine and opening chest/pecs

Electric stim or IF stim - helps with muscle tightness/relaxation

Heating pad or Far infrared heating pad

Neoprene thumb, elbow or wrist wraps

astern gave us permission to repost these great ideas:

I have the Edgelow Protocol kit and had that type of PT, my threapist made me a "home neck traction" thing-a-majig and I love to use it and listen to a meditation CD I got from the library.

First you get someone to help you loop the hand towel from the base of your neck to the top od your head- almost like a unicorn :P. Tie the towel into place up there then tape around the tie just to make sure its secure.
Next, connect the theraband to the towel loop so you have a chain.
Then, do the same with a rope, connecting it to the theraband.

How it all comes together:
The rope end goes on a door handle. Put your head in the towel end, with it around the base of your neck and the tied end close to your forehead/ hairline (think unicorn haha) then you sit down close to the door and slowly lay down. Scootching away from the door on your back until the chain gets taut and you begin to feel a pull through your neck. \
You can move away as much as you want. Also if your arms are too sensitive to fall to your sides, you can use a belt to loosely bind them in a folded arm, yet relaxed position across your belly. I listen to Jack Kornfield's Meditation for Beginners Disc 1 because it talks about pain a little bit.
The pull for me is such a relief. I feel my neck elongate and the feeling of compression goes away. My PT said its ok to do this for as long as you want too! I swear it is the best active thing I've done for discomfort throughout my TOS/ RSI experience and I recommend it wholeheartedly!

If this sounds like something you'd like to try and my explanation was too hazy, let me know. I'd be glad to post a picture of the traction thing and what it looks like in use.

I know I asked for new suggestions recently - thanks for the replies.

At the moment I have to ensure plently of soft cushions or large soft cuddly toys to use to support arms and neck. Have an adjustable bed but still need lots of pillows and then some of those microbead cushions under arms and hands, also have a large cushion but animal shaped which is useful as head supports arm and prevents slipping plus the legs help stop my head from rolling sideways which does not help either.
I also try and do the sitting up with the palms upwards etc explained in earlier reply.

I really wish I cold just lie down flat as am sure it would help aleviate some of the traction related pain. I find myself getting lower and lower when seated. Obviously this is not something can do when going out which thus limits going out anywhere. Any suggestions on making car journeys etc comfortable.

Hx

A tip for those who never got comfy with expensive theraputic pillows w/ memory foam:

I've never had it recommended, but I actually sleep with one of those microbead (moshi) pillows at night. It helps me immensely!!! The spandex covering made me feel a little hot but I've slipped it in a regular pillowcase and it works like a champ

Riding in Cars-

I know having a smooth driver works wonders- no fast stops or starts, no rough shifting or swerving.
Automatic { just smoother} vs manual shifting

Easily adjustable seats - slightly reclined
Padding for seat belt straps
Pillows or pads for arms/ neck

You can get a waiver for the seat belt law due to health reasons - if the belt pressure bothers too much or you need to lay down.

some members make a bed type set up in their vehicle

Hi

I am new to site, but I would be very interested to see a picture of the neck traction. I believe it would help me. Thanks very much.

Cecily, I see you are new to the neurotalk community. Welcome!!! Glad this looks like something that could help. Just stick with me- I hope to get the photo up before next Sunday!

tips from olecyn:

Here is what all the loops will look like together and where to put your head.(pretend you are the bunny rabbit and that the traction device is attached to a doorknob.) Please click on the pictures below to see them enlarged!

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