I need to replace a shower handle because it won't pull out or push in anymore inorder to to turn the water on or off. I am hoping that I will not have to take out tile or punch out drywall on the other side of the wall. Am I dreaming that I can do this without making a bigger hole then is already there (the hole is a bit smaller then the fixture cover)?

Yep, you are dreaming about not making a bigger hole. There is hope. Most push/pull shower faucets have replaceable cartridges. Shut off the main, remove the handle and the bezel. You should be able to remove the valve with a crescent wrench. Take it to a good hardware or plumbing supply and buy a new cartridge.

Let us know the make of your shower valve and we can walk you through the repair. It it's a Moen then the repair's a simple one and you won't have to tear anything up. Regards, Tom