Suggestions for shoulder self-care

[puglogic]

I've always been pretty good at working my way through injuries of various kinds without painkillers or doctor visits, but I have one that I'm not making any headway on, and I thought I'd ask you all for advice.

I have what I THINK is just a pinched nerve in my upper spine. It radiates pain from about my 5th cervical vertebra across the top of my left shoulder blade to the cap of my shoulder. It wasn't a sudden injury or anything like that - no trauma, no numbness. Just woke up with it one morning.

Here's what I've tried:
Heat packs alternated with cold packs
Small doses of anti-inflammatory drugs for a couple of days
Massage therapy (three times so far)
Rest

It's been about 10 days and no relief yet. Vicodin is starting to sound awfully good, but I don't want to just take something for symptoms...I want it to heal. Is it just a waiting game?

Any other thoughts on what I might try?
Thanks.
pug

[CathyA]

Would you consider acupuncture?
Pinched nerves are hard to deal with. DH has one in his neck and can't feel several of his fingers. But he has chosen not to do anything about it. The doc offered him some shots, but he declined. But he only has numbness. I can see where pain would really get to you.
Did you get any relief at all from the massage therapy?
Have you done a search for exercises that might help?
How about a very reputable chiropractor?

[Jemima]

I have a pinched nerve in my spine and the only thing that helped me was Physical Therapy. You have to see a doctor first for a diagnosis. Really, I wouldn't mess around with self care. You could hurt yourself worse.