Dear Greg82,
Good afternoon! My name is Dani. It is very nice to meet you. I am new here too. There are people from all walks of life here. I think you too will like it here aswell. You said you were on a waiting list for some tests? Will you be able to aquire these tests soon? Or is it a long wait? Need to start documenting and quick. 
I have MANY of your symptoms. Literally. My neck does the same thing, and continues to this day... Its happing all way down my spine now, thou the stuff in the thoratic region doesnt not hurt.. it itches! 
It was a very slow, gradual progression over a few years time. I too am ALL inflammation related. and by the by.. I hate to be one to pluck apart your post but!
Pain seems to expose my Bipolar tendencies
Slowly progressing spine issues HURT. No bones about it! No "tendancy" atall. I get down right Grumpy! A good, constructive grumpy out lit for me is my local states representatives. But be careful with that one... apparently even wheen I write my rant letters.... during election time I still get the "Pro" (inster primitive view point here) spam. 
I really really hope you are able to get your tests in a timly fashion. It would be really good to get some key therapies in right away. And document, document those changes in your spine. Even if you get "We don't know" today... the rate of medical advances is progressing at a mind boggling speed.
See you again soon
*huggs*
dani
Until you can get tests / treatment plann started
Ideas: Arnica (gel and pill form at any local health food store), "wet" heat heating pad, TeNS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), Pilates (upper core postural muscles exercises) & Dark foods (black) the better the ani-inflammation / antioxidants will be. Beans and rice is a nice lunch 