Cherie
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                    
                        
                        
                        I was diagnosed with TOS 6 years ago. It is a work related condition and I have never been able to return to work full time.  I have been fighting with the workmans comp ins co and finally on December 8, 2000 I obtained a court order directing them to allow me treatment.  To date I have been diagnosed by 8 different Dr's. I finally found a wonderful thoracic surgeon in Elizabeth NJ who sent me for numerous tests, on being a non-invasive vascular study which confirmed my TOS - I flatlined when I raised my arm up.  I have been through numerous rounds of P/T, O/T.  I have worn braces on my arms, elbow "trouths" created by my P/T. All have done nothing except cause me more pain.  I have a constant numbness in my hand and my arm.  I have swelling over my scalene muscle constantly.  As a last resort, I am scheduled to have surgery 1/29/01.  The Dr. can't guarantee the results but assures me I will feel some relief and I will not get any worse.  It has been a long, hard road and surgery scares me but I am looking forward to going forward.  I'll keep you posted. Wish me luck!