Poor you! I've been offline a bit with a cold and didn't read about your troubles. I'm glad you're on the mend! Get well soon! I've had a pinched nerve a couple of times from stress, and it wasn't very painful but just left my arm tingly and my shoulders tense. My doctor recommended professional massage, which was great. I don't like friendly backrubs at ALL, but I found that I do like professional massage. And I never would have splurged on it without a doctor's recommendation.

Though I'm sure your own doctor will have given you his/her own professional advice. Take care of yourself!