ember919

SL,
Don't get too discouraged yet. While I understand that five weeks may seem like a looooooong time to you right now, it is only the tiniest beginning in terms of the nerve healing process. Your nerves will continue to heal/regrow for up to 18 months.

I, like many others, had immediate relief of the pain in my hand and arm after surgery. (I think one of the first things I said to my husband was, "My hand doesn't hurt.") However, some of that pain returned as I was recovering. It wasn't constant, came and went with a truckload of other symptoms, but over time (months) it pretty much resolved.

You read about such a wide variety of symptoms and healing times here because recovery depends on the degree of nerve damage and/or the length of time over which it occurred. Some people are diagnosed and go right into surgery. I put mine off - because I was scared - for almost three years.
I was warned before surgery that some of my damage might be permanent, and after 10 months I do continue to have some problems, but I'm worlds better than I was before surgery and also hopeful that some things will still improve more.

I also have rotator cuff problems and occasional bursitis. It's on the same side as my neck stuff, so it is sometimes difficult to distinguish, and it definitely seems unfair on days when both bother me. I'm currently considering having the rotator cuff "cleaned out", but to be honest, I just don't want to go through ANY kind of surgery again at this time.

RA runs in my family and I was tested before I had my surgery. My understanding is that it can make recovery a little more difficult and painful. Not being able to take your medication must really stink and you certainly have my sympathy.

The muscle weakness should get better as you are more and more able to do normal, everyday things. And PT, if your surgeon has ordered it, will help, too.

The fatigue may just be a side effect of the healing process. Your body went through a tremendous trauma during the surgery, plus you are dealing with daily pain, stress, etc., and all those things take their toll. A little walking every day definitely helps.

Hope your recovery continues to progress well and that you are feeling better soon.