Is it all just in my head?

[dreamweevr61]

Okay so here we go...MRI says multiple broad based disc protrusions from L1 to S1 most severe at  L5-S1 causing bilateral neural foraminal stenosis.  Degenerative joint disease of the lumbar spine.  Peripherally distributed nerve roots at the level of L4, L5, S1 consistent with arachnoiditis. There is a sizeable area of high signal intensity bone lesion at the T6,  probable hemangioma of T6  vetebral body.  Multiple mild disc protrusions from T8 to T12 with encroachment of the thecal sac.  Degenerative joint disease of the dorsal spine.
The MRI was done back in 2008, everyday pain levels exceed 8 & I have been given many opiote based pain meds since the MRI but my regular Doctor is no longer practicing at the clinic I go to...my new Doctor did not give me anything for my pain...like are you serious Doc?  He said my back problems are mild...is it my frikkin' imagination that I am in horrific pain or what?  Someone please tell me...

[dreamweevr61]

Thank You very much  for your consult, I am sure he thinks I am dependent!!  I am really surprised to find that I have not been having withdrawals...everyone said I would, I didn't realize as to how much worse I am having been off the meds for going on 3 wks today!!  The pain has increased tremendously!!  Thank You again Dr Sharma I am glad to hear that it is not all in my head.

[Dr Sharma]

Hi there. I can comprehend that the pain must be severe with a possible hemagioma at D6 level and multiple level disc degenerative disease. Since you have been on opioids for long, the new doctor might be suspecting you to be opioid dependent and hence the assumption that you want the drug because you might be craving for it.  You need to confide your pain requirement to your doctor because it won’t help much if he refuses you pain killers apt for your grade of pain. You can also consult a pain physician discussing with him the possibilities for you since you have degenerative disease at multiple levels. Take care.
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