Cronic pain in legs

[lisals]

I have had moderate to sever pain in my legs ever since I can remember. I have undergone several knee surgeries over the years, and finally had a total knee replacement 6 yrs ago. I have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis in both knees, and suffer from joint pain in my left hip ever since my last knee surgery(lft) . I think this is partly because after my left knee surgery, the joint now hypo-extends about 15 degrees. I think that is the correct term, it bends backwards,,lol. anyhow, this causes my hip alignment to be off. My question is this, how do I approach my Primary care Doctor about refering me to a pain management program? In all honesty, when the pain gets to the point that I can no longer take it, I have been taking pain meds offered to me by my friends,as long as it something that I KNOW I can take without a issues. But I'm tired of being in constant pain, and would like to get into a managment program as soon as possible., Can anyone offer any suggestions? This information will be greatly appreciated    

[concerned621]

Depending on your insurance you do not need to ask your doc for a referral.  You find a good pain mgt. specialist and make an appointment. Check with your insurance first.  In addition have you had an MRI of your back? Stenosis of your low back can cause severe low back pain.  So your doctor who has treated you all these years gotten paid extremely well to do so goes home at night and sleeps well while you are in horrible pain.  Don't suffer anymore.  Demand a referral if you even need one and if you won't give you one see another doctor.  You don't deserve to be in pain.  I am so sorry you are feeling this way.  If you have anyone that can be your advocate and help you make the calls get their help.  

[Tuckamore]

Hi Lisals,

I am so sorry to hear about your constant chronic and untreated pain. Are you being prescribed any medication to ease the pain? Is your physician area the the extreme amount of pain that you deal with on a daily basis? Sometimes we like to be "good patients" and not complain. It hurts us more than helps us. Make sure your PCP knows the amount of pain and challenges that you are living with every day.

I always have found that asking a physician, what next or how do I handle this life challenging pain or what else can be done type of questions will get the PCP's  brain working.  If he/she offers no suggestions just come out and ask, "Do you think I would benefit from a consult with a PMP?"

In my experience physicians are a bit strange to the degree that they like to come up with solutions and ideas on their own. So with a little push they often will suggest it. Again of not just come out and ask for that referral.

Please let us know how you are doing. We will look forward to hearing from you. Best of luck and please keep in touch.

Take Care,
Tuck