QUESTIONS, CONFUSED

[madi1974]

WHAT IS PAIN MANAGEMENT? IM WORRIED THAT THE DOC WILL LOOK AT ME LIKE IM CRAZY. WHY CANT MY NORMAL DOCTOR JUST TAKE CARE OF ME UNTIL MY SURGERY.

[namnam46]

Hi Madi - I'm with Jaded Sweetheart, Tuck gave you EXCELLENT advice as usual.  

I understand your concern as I, too, am facing hip implant surgery in another month in September.  What type of surgery are you facing?  I'm glad that your Doctor is sending you to a PM (Pain Management) Doctor to help you with your pain control until your Surgery! He will help you to control your pain until it's time for it.

I wish your the VERY best with your surgery on the 16th. I'm assuming that you meant the 16th of August.  

PLEASE keep us informed as to how you are doing as we will ALL be very concernd about how you are getting along!!!

BEST OF LUCK!!!!.........Sherry

[madi1974]

THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR RESPONDING TO MY CONSERNS. I'M JUST SO CONFUSED AND NERVOUS. I HAVE MY 1ST APP. WITH PMP AT 9AM AND AN APP WITH SURGERY ON MONDAY THE 16TH. I HOPE THIS MATTER ID HANDLED ASAP.

[JadedSweetheart]

I completely agree with Tuck.  Just adding my support and hope that you will be feeling better soon.  I have no idea what that kind of pain is like, but I imagine it's awful. We're all here if you need to talk about it.

[Tuckamore]

Hi Again Madi,

If I remember correctly you have an adrenal cystic mass with some calcification. Is this the reason for the referral to a PMP?  

I am not certain why your PCP has referred you to a PMP. usually it is because the PCP is limited in his knowledge of PM options and he/she may be restricted from prescribing the medications that are often required in chronic pain management.

Each state is a bit different. In my state it is our PCP that prescribe for their chronic pain patients. If the PCP feels their are other options and specific PM treatments that may be beneficial we are then referred to a PM Clinic. In most other states it is a PMP that prescribes for and treats PM patients. I beleive that CA may operate like most states.

I would agree that as long as you are looking for short term pain management your PCP should be able to manage you. I don't know your state laws or the particulars of your pain or your PCP....which I would think all plays into the referral. Is it possible that your PCP beleives your pain may be more long term than short term?

Thee best approach is to discuss this with your PCP. Ask him/her the very question you posted here. A PMP should not look at you as if you are crazy. Believe me they see all kinds of pain issues and ppl. You have documented reason for a possible pain producing condition. I would hope that the PMP would be kind and understanding. many are.

You may also want to ask this question on the Adrenal Insufficiency Forum. The members will have more personal knowledge in your specific condition and treatments. Please know that you are always welcome here.  

When is your surgery scheduled?

Feel free to ask additional questions regarding pain management. We are here to support you and look forward to your updates.

Take Care,
~Tuck