My shoulder pain is not any better despite physical therapy and rest. In fact, last week I was travelling, so I didn’t do any swimming or computer work, and I did my PT routine on a regular basis. Now, both my shoulders hurt more than ever.

So, I’m trying a new strategy to just ignore the pain. I’m not sure if that’s a good idea, but I’m really frustrated and don’t know what else to do.

PS: I am also giving up Aspartame (Equal Artificial Sweetener). I found some articles online that show joint pain can be caused by aspartame, and I do use that alot!

UPDATE on April 8, 2006: My shoulder is doing okay…at least not worse….so I am sticking with my plan to ignore it as long as it doesn’t get worse!

I did see the Ortho again, and he tested my flexibility and said things look good. I told him about my increased pain while traveling, and asked if this could be stress related. He said yes. Regarding my hand numbness, he said to come back to see him if that recurs, or if I get shooting pain down my arms or shoulder blades, or weakness in the arms…as those could indicate a pinched nerve in the (arthritic) neck. I asked if my original shoulder pain could have been from the neck, since it started in low in the shoulder blades, and he said it could have. I have been trying to avoid any activity that strains my neck.

Swimming is going okay. I did a full workout today and feel good. I feel muscle soreness (which is a good kind of pain).