Coping Skills

[bectech]

Hi,
I am new to the forum and am looking for supplements that might help with my pain control. Because I work I am limited as to what I can take and still function, even though I am on what I consider a high dose of narcotics.  Lately I am having pretty incredible break through pain episodes and can't figure out what causes it - sets it off - or what I'm doing that might be making it worse. I have a degenerative bone disease and had a fusion of c2, c4, c5 and replacement c3.  I'm 52 but have the bones of someone who is 65. I also have TMJ and both my TMJ joints are gone and they have brought up replacement, can't even seem to make myself think about that or how I'd end up after that surgery.  I see my neurosurgeon this week so I can find how far along my fusion has come, it was in Oct 2009 and I still can't sleep on my back and that area of my neck is incredible painful if I touch it or when I dry my hair with a towel. I bough the memory foam pillow today so I hope to get some better results using that instead of normal pillow. I am looking to talk with others who have to deal with the same issues I am going through and hope this site gives me some of the support I so desperately need. No one but another chronic pain suffer can really understand the life we lead or the thoughts that run through our head. I have been in chronic pan for 20 years but last year is when it became unbearable and they found the compression in my spine and told me surgery would relieve most of my pain.  And  I know it seems to be hit and miss as to whether the surgery will help or destroy our lives. I meet a lady who had basically the same surgery as I did and her pain levels were 0. Now the cause of our problems were very different and perhaps that is why my problems were accelerated and hers relieved? At least the overpass is less appealing these days so I am making progress.

[namnam46]

Hi, bectech,

First let me Welcome you to the Pain Management Forum and tell you that we hope that you will be an active member and give everyone that benefit of your CP (Chronic Pain) experience!

I'm afraid that I won't be able to help you with any type of information on Supplements to help with your pain as I don't take any supplements.  However, tomorrow I'm sure that you will find many more suggestions for you , just as Sara and Jamie have suggested. Sometimes the week-ends will be rather slow as many of the members are spending Family Time with their Families.

I'm so sorry that you didn't have the wonderful success with your surgery as the lady that you met. Even tho the surgery MAY seem to be almost the same it still WASN'T the same and your problems may have been much more complex that hers were. There are just so MANY variables with each surgery that all you can do is hope for the best results possible!!

I'm so very sorry for all the different problems that have surfaced with your pain the past few years. The added TMJ pain must just make it unbearable on top of the compression that has affected your spine. There arae many on here that can empathize with you on having to put up with the suffering that you've had to endure for 20 years. We, myself included, totally understand what you are having to endure. All of us have come to the realization that it isn't going to go away!! We have had to learn to cope with the ongoing pain.

Again, I'm so glad that you have found us and I hope that you will remain an active member. I hope that you can faind some of the answers that you are seeking on here...Sherry

[sandee1818]

I forgot to add that you may need to talk to your doctor about breakthrough medications. If you take an extended release medicine then you usually need a breakthrough medication also for the break thru pain.

[sandee1818]

Hi and welcome to the pain management community, we are very glad to have you:)
Studies suggest that a low-fat, high-fiber diet may help to stave off aches and pains. In addition, certain anti-inflammatory spices, such as ginger, cinnamon, and cilantro, may have therapeutic effects and play an important role in chronic pain management.
Of course there are things such as bio feedback, acupuncture, massages, guided imagery and hypnosis.  These things work for some people.
Health-food stores are full of herbal supplements purported to reduce pain, but be careful.
The FDA does not regulate these supplements, and some of them have negative side effects, particularly when combined with over-the-counter pain medications.
If you have a GNC store near you the people that work there usually have extensive knowledge of the herbs and supplements. But make certain you talk to your doctor before taking anything as it may not work with your current medications.
Surgery is different for different people, what may work for me may not for you and the surgeon has alot to do with how well it may turn out. Experience is key when hiring a surgeon to operate. I have spoke to so many people who have had back surgery and very few have had great results. they may have reduced pain but I have not heard of too many that has received total relief.
We have a wonderful community here with some very kind and compassionate members who care and offer their support. I am proud to be a part of it.
We look forward to getting to know you:)

[jamlws]

I am glad you found this site, the people on this board will help you. They have helped me so much and we all know what it is like to deal with pain day in and day out. We also know the thoughts that go thru our heads like you said.
Everyone does different with the same surgery that just shows that since she has 0 pain now and you wasn't that lucky to get that. Just like people get different results from the same meds. It just depends on the person and how your body handles the meds or surgery.
I hope your able to get the answers that you are looking for, alot of the people will be back on tomorow so I am hoping you get some more answers.
Best of luck to you,
Jamie

[Sarajmt]

Hi!  I take valerian to help me sleep.  Consult your doctor prior to taking any herbs or supplements.   Also, Jaybay knows some really good relaxation techniques.  She should be along later.

I'm sorry you are in such pain.  But we all are so if misery loves company! lol)  There should be more members here later and tomorrow.  Check back.  Someone may have some great advice for you.

Wishing you a pain free night
Sara

[bectech]

Thank you for your concern, it helps just to know there are others listening.

[melissaky]

I don't have any ideas on any supplements that will help your pain but I wanted to post and let you know I feel so bad for the pain you are suffering .It is so hard being in such pain and I am sure you have been through heck. I pray that you will find some relief and your quality of life will improve. God bless , Melissa