Pinched Nerve Update: Still Hurts, Still Grumpy

 Today hurts a little more than usual—and that’s saying something—because I had my physical therapy evaluation. Carlos was fantastic… but also hit me with the dreaded phrase:

“You’re an interesting case.”

No. Just… no.
When it comes to health, “interesting,” “unique,” and “special” all translate to: complicated, confusing, and good luck to us all.

Turns out, I’ve got stuff happening at C1 and C2 and C7 and C8.
If you, like me, are new to the world of cervical vertebrae: welcome. We’ll be learning together, one pinched nerve and awkward position at a time.

📊 Where We’re At

Pain Level: 5
(But let’s be real: pain goes from 0 to 11 faster than my cats hearing a can of tuna open.)

  • It's not always sharp pain—it’s a constant tingling, like my arm fell asleep and never got the memo to wake up.

  • From elbow to fingertips: thumb, pointer, and middle fingers are the stars of the tingling show.

  • Wrist and elbow pain also make surprise appearances.

  • Walking puts my entire arm to sleep, so yes, I’ve been out in public with my arm in a sling, looking like I lost a duel with a shopping cart.

Special Note:
Occasional stabbing pain causes a symphony of four-letter words, facial twitches, and muttered commentary that makes Zoom meetings… interesting. Let’s just say camera off is the way to go. I either look like I’m laughing at absolutely nothing or like I’m in agony while attending a perfectly normal meeting.


🧪 PT Report

Carlos is optimistic. I’m scheduled for 12 appointments, but he thinks we can tackle this in fewer. Which would be great, considering PT doesn’t actually start until May 8.  Today was only the 

Until then, I’m on a modified home routine and occasionally playing human origami trying to find a comfortable position.

💊 Meds

  • Steroids: Surprisingly effective—definitely helped me get over the worst part.

  • Current: Just Tylenol, either at bedtime or on “I know I’ll regret this” mornings (like today).

🌈 Bright Side

  • My range of motion is great—neck and arms can move well (even if they tingle or yell about it later).

  • Carlos fixed my headache while manipulating me around like Play-doh then poking needles in me like a Voodoo Doll. Small victories.

So here we are. Still hurting. Still grumpy. Still making it through one awkward arm sling shopping trip at a time.

If anyone wants to gift me a "Not Today, C-Spine" shirt or create a bingo card for nerve symptoms, I’m available.

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