Pain medication

  I was diagnosed and had surgery to remove an arachnoid cyst in the thoracic spine.  My symptoms included drop foot, and general left leg weakness.  The cord is compressed and atrophied in the area of the cyst:T5 and 6.  My symptoms continued to worsen/more pain. After 2 more opinions, one saying no to another surgery, the other agreeing with my orginal surgeon, to go back in to "explore".  The most recent surgery was done in November, 1998 at Columbia Pres. in NYC.  They excised any excess tissue, and inserted a shunt to drain any excess spinal fluid.  Six weeks after the surgery and there is no change.  I had been taking elavil for the pain, but also tried Tegretol and Pamelor without success.  The doctor has now prescribed neurontin, saying it may take awhile to "kick in".  The diagnosis is spastic paraparesis/  I realize now that I must live with the lack of mobility~I use a brace and cane, but Wish there was an answer for the pain.  It's burning through the midsection and down both legs, worse in the affected one.  Some in the spine also but I'm hoping that is just a result of the surgery and will subside.  I do participate in Physical therapy to help regain strength/balance.
  Any in-sights? I can't even find anyone with similar problems to discuss it with.  I look forward to any help you can give.
  Thanks
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Thanks for the question. Sorry to hear about your problem. Of course we hope that the pain will continue to improve after the surgery. The neurontin is similar to the tegretol but some people will respond to one and not the other so you may get some relief from that. In cases such as yours we refer patients to our chronic pain management program to help people cope with the chronic pain. From your story it certainly sounds like you have perm spinal cord damage. Treatment will require patience on all parties involved. There are a number of medication and non medication treatments available. I would ask for a referal to a pain program. Good luck
This information is provided for general medical educational purposes only. Pleas econsult your doctor regarding diagnsotic and treatment options.