Hi squirrel...I have alot of pain in my shoulders and upper back.the partially numb sensation you describe almost sounds like u might have a herniated disk in your neck.I do and it causes me to have a strange numb sensation in my upper back near my spinal cord.maybe just a bulging disk ,but often numbness can come from these nerves getting pinched.i hope you can get some relief!
I went thru the diagnosis roulette as well and am still going thru it.Today I was told they r thinking lupus.so yeah I hear you on that one.hope u feel better!

Hello:-) I agree, get your spine checked. A lot of fibro type issues (and fibro patients) have disk issues in the neck. It goes *everywhere*. Be patient, be strong, we're here for you!

Hi squirrel. I too have the upper back shoulder blade neck pain issue. My doctor is getting ready to do an MRI actually a repeat one from 8 years ago was my last. I doubt that it will show anything butt at least she's trying. This place is great for support come often whenever needed. Great meeting you welcome aboard. LOL

Nice to meet you, squirrel. Yes, I have lots of spine/nerve/muscle/younameit back issues. It seems to be a common link in our fibro struggles. I know it sucks to see doctor after doctor after doctor, but I hope you can get it checked out & find some relief. *hugs*

In addition to having your neck and back c h decked out, I'd investigate TMJ. It can cause neck, shoulder and upper back problems too. You may be grinding and clenching your teeth and not even be aware of it. Find a dentist who specializes in TMJ. You may need a bite splint to wear at night. The splint puts your jaw in a neutral position that allows the muscles to relax. Take care.

Thank you all so much. I did see my Internist after about two weeks of it and he said he thought it was Fibro and should get better in 2 weeks. It has gotten better, but still there. I might see Rheumatologist if it persists. I appreciate all the helpful and supportive posts. THANKS!!

If it is Fibromyalgia (FMS) , there is no way it would be better in two weeks. This is a chronic condition. Perhaps you or your Internist misspoke? The longer a chronic pain cycle continues, the harder it becomes to manage or stop. Don't dally if things are not better. See a rheumy or a neurologist. Take care.

Thanks fantod - I am really trying to get a handle on Fibro - I am on Savella and I have been reading to see what to expect. I thought if I was on meds things would be better and they were at first. Now, not so much. I guess I just didn't think there was much more they can do - I have pain meds - hate to take them and usually wait until I can't stand it anymore. Does this mean the Savella isn't working? Thanks for taking the time to reply to me.

It depends on how long you've been on Savella. Thirty days or more, still not a lot of relief - time to see the doctor. It takes time and a lot of tinkering to find the right medication regimen. Six months of messing around with meds, dosage is pretty typical. Bear in mind that the purpose of pain management is to improve your quality of life. You will not be completely pain free. And, don't wait until the pain is unbearable. It is better to be proactive and treat before it gets out of hand. Much harder to stop a pain cycle when it is way out of control. Buy the book "Fibromyalgia for Dummies." It is available on Amazon. This is our go to book on this board. The book will give you a comprehensive overview of this complex illness. Take care.

Welcome squirrel. Hope you find a combo that works. I also use some mind/body techniques. Gentle hugs.

Your symptoms sounds exactly like what I have that add so much annoyance to Fibro. Cervical spondylitis and osteoarthritis. I have the pain and muscle tightness and numbness you described. It's generally worse on my right side. I have found that the right type of physical therapy, correct positioning and occasional muscle relaxants and naproxen help. I tried Savella, but unfortunately couldn't tolerate it. Here is hoping things irk out for you.

Hi squirrel, savella did not help me. I wouldn't waste too much time on meds that aren't helping. I hope you find some relief.

Thanks everyone - I will buy the book. So sorry for everyone on here - too many people with too much pain. On Savella for around 6 months so far.

One question - anyone who would like to chime in -- How many of you still work? I have my own business and I am the only employee. I have no one else to do it if I can't - and it is getting harder to keep up. I was just wondering how many had to stop working due to this illness?

I've been on SSDI since 2009. Prior to that, I was a production manager in the film industry. If I tried to work even part time, I'd be the world's most unreliable employee. It can take as long as 3 years to get SSDI. Most people are denied the first time and have to appeal. It is also extremely important that your doctor's support your decision to apply. Take care.