Chronic Rib Pain

[vcki1027]

Since havingmy thoracotomy, I have severe, constant  pain in   my lower ribs. Told it is Post thoracotomy neuropathy. Curious what treatment options there are. I do not tolerate the drug therapy they suggested. Tried TENS, now  trying RFA of the nerve root.  Howeever, the ablation causes  even more pain .!?!
Are there any other options?

[Kamal S Saini, MD, MRCP (UK), DM]

Hi,
The Charcot-Marie is a hereditary motor-sensory neuropathy, and may be causing or complicating many of your nerve pain symptoms.
I will again repeat my earlier suggestion that you seek help from a specialized pain clinic. Pain management has made tremendous progress in the last decade or so, and most pain can now be substantially controlled.
All the best, and be strong! God Bless!

[vcki1027]

Thank you for your response. I did not realize how through you could be on this forum.  Another piece to my health puzzle is I have an inheritated neuropathic disease ( Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease0. So,   having neuropathic pain is something I am used to.

Since having my cancer surgery , the rib pain has been a very  big issue as it limits  how long I can sit, and I can't walk far- use a power chair when I leave the home. I
did not tolerate neurontin, the SSRIs,  even amitriptyline. I  was already using a fentanyl for chronic pain in my extremities. Lidocaine patches  and TENS did not help. I  have had 2 ablation treatments and the last one caused me to have 18 days  of intense, burning pain 9 out of 10 scale, 24-7 . It was horrendous.  

I have been told this type of neuropathy is difficult to treat.. it is also difficult to live with. Have you heard of   having neuronton made into a topical  cream at a compounding pharmacy.? I am seeking my options.
Your suggestions are VERY appreciated.

[Kamal S Saini, MD, MRCP (UK), DM]

Hi,
There are many different classes of drugs used in the treatment of neuropathic pain. These include NSAIDs, opiods, anticonvulsant  and antidepressant drugs. What was the ************** offered to you? Which drugs were you not able to tolerate? TENS and RFA have not been effective for you. Another option is implantable devices/pumps. Sometimes alternative therapies like acupuncture, biofeedback may be helpful. You need to consult a pain specialist or go to a centre which specializes in pain management.
All The Best, and God Bless.