Hypersensitivity

I had major surgery to remove a tumor that was found in the c6 c7 vertebrae on the spine. I had an amazing surgeon and he was able to remove the benign tumor but had to cut most of the c7 and part of the c6. The tumor also was on the dorsal root and was wrapped around the long thoracic nerve and he was able to split the nerve so I have motor function but lost  the pain and feeling part Very pleased with the amount of risk in that type of surgery, now the problem is my finger has major hypersensitivity and when it get cold out even near the 40's my finger cant react to getting cold and turns into an ice cube. Pulsating pain non stop, also when removing the tumor the c7 vert was almost completely cut and had a major fusion and the cold hits the metal so fast and hits my nervous system and I lock up. I take neurontin and a pain killer hydros 10mg and baclofen 10mg. But I want to get off the meds and have been told this could be a permanent or take up to 10 years. I want to know if there is a way to relieve the hypersensitivity  through non narcotic meds or acupuncture or anything . I am to the point where I want to cut it off it hurts so bad. what can I do? Any new treatments? I am willing to do anything to stop the agony. Even if I have to go with meds, should I stay with hydros because there is so much more for the body to filter?

[Christopher R Newey, DO]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with your doctor.

Without the ability to obtain a history from you and examine you, I can not comment on a formal diagnosis or treatment plan for your symptoms. However, I will try to provide you with some information regarding this matter.

I am not sure of the details of where your pain is (i.e., what finger(s)) and your past history, but pain to nonpainful stimulus is a condition called allodynia. It is a secondary to central and peripheral sensitization of the nervous system causing a lower pain threshold. The treatment can be frustrating and may take time. It sounds like you are on an appropriate medication (i.e., gabapentin). The dosage of the medication, if not alrady done, should be titrated to an effective dose.  This can be titrated by your physician who prescribes this medication. Once titrated to an effective dose and if still ineffective, other options do exist such as change in medication(s), addition of medication(s), or psychosocial rehabilitation. Opioids typically do not help in chronic, neuropathic pain.

I do not have experience with acupuncture, and so I cannot comment on whether or not it would be beneficial.

Thank you for using the forum, I hope you find this information useful, good luck.