is it time to see a neurologist

[velvetvenus]

i have, and have had pain for years in my wrists (from carpal tunnel), my hips (x-rays show some arthritis), rotator cuffs (make awful grinding noises), and upper and lower back. my chiropractor says i have advanced wear in my hip joints and rotator cuffs. my family doctor doesn't do any tests for anything he just throws me lortab and soma's. my pain effects my ability to work and do normal everyday activities severely. when i saw the hand specialist he said my nerves were really close to the surface probably exacerbating the carpal tunnel (found out from giving me steroid shots in my wrists), when i see the dentist i have to have that gowgantz (don't know how to spell it, sorry) shot for even just shallow fillings as well as topical anesthetic for cleaning. my pain is real and i'm frustrated by not having a clear answer as to why i have so much of it. i am also bipolar and have adhd, all my meds help some including the pain med and muscle relaxer, but they don't help enough for me to work or even do my daily housework consistantly. would a neurologist be able to help me or at least tell me if my nerves being so close to the surface is the problem?

[velvetvenus]

i know stress can exacerbate pain but i've been bipolar, had anxiety disorder, and adhd for more years than i've had joint and muscle pain, it's just a different kind of pain. when i'm having an episode of depression or anxiety (which is always one or the other or both) it does make my pain worse. the only thing i can think of is to contact a neurologist to explain why i have almost constant pain. i don't want to contact my family doc. unless i have to, it will just be a waste of my co-pay. plus i try to avoid confrontation because it causes me severe anxiety to the point i'm sick. i'm going to ask my chiropractor today if i shoud call a neurologist. thanks for your support and comments. velvetvenus

[Tuckamore]

Hello,

Welcome to the Pain Management Forum. I am so sorry to hear about all your pain. It sounds like you are struggle with it your chronic pain and all the problems, compromises and adjustment that it brings to our lives.

Stress can increase your pain as I am sure that you know. Molly has offered you some good suggestions. We are our own best advocate. If you feel your PCP is just throwing pills at your pain than discuss it with him. Ask why he has not investigated your symptoms....or is he confident in a diagnosis what is it and is he/she treating you accordingly?

If your PCP dismisses your concerns it is time to move on. Remember you hired him to perform a service. He works for you! If he does not provide you the service you expect and deserve find a PCP than will.

Please let us know how you are doing. I will look forward to your updates and remember that we are her to support you in anyway we can.
Peace, Tuck

[Mollyrae]

Hello velvetvenus and welcome to the Pain Forum.

It sounds like you are at your wits end with the daily discomfort of pain and I know this can stress your body out. Sometimes stress alone can trigger pain. When feeling like this day in and out, you can also become depressed which is another trigger for pain.

From what you wrote, it does sound like the Doctor has run a few tests but maybe not enough. If you are unsatisfied with your care, please find another Doctor who would be willing to do the tests your comfortable with or at least get a second opinion.

You are your own advocate and only you can determine if your body is telling you that something is wrong. Be assertive and keep at the medical world until you get the answers you need. I wish I had better advise for you. Others will post as the day goes on so be patient. Please take care and good luck.

Mollyrae