Other useful meds?

[grnmaj]

I have been diagnosed with bone spurs and arthritis in my C5 and C7.  Dr. has me on Gabapentin.  Started with one 300 MG capsule at bedtime for three nights, increased to 2 at  bedtime for three nights, then 2 at bedtime and one in the a.m. until I next see the dr.  I don't see any improvement in the arm pain, which is like a throbbing toothache.  The Gabapentin causes me to be extremely sleepy and I get very wobbley after each increase in dosage.  I am curious if there is any other meds that would perhaps be more helpful and less invasive in my lifestyle?  Any assistance will be greatly appreciated.  Thank you so much in advance.  

[Violette001]

Hi
I have a little similar diagnosis to you plus some more extras.
What has helped me has been epidural steroid injections in the thoracic and lumbar areas but unfortunately they make the cervical area unbearably worse.
A medication used for epilepsy called Topamax has been very helpful to reduce the migraines that had increased to almost 25 days per month during the past several years.
An electrical appliance called “Tens” which reduces the pain sensation and helps nerve recovery. Also, to keep changing the pain medication until you find one that really works for you, this took me years! I think pain medication is different for most people.
Then the last therapy which only you can do and no one else, any kind of relaxation therapy that works for you, I do meditation. I know it sounds strange but it really does help. It relaxes the muscles which are cramped. Only when the pain is really bad I can’t do it I have to wait for better days.
Good Luck

[angel186]

I know the other post said that cervical epidurals were no good, but I beg to differ. Was in exteme pain in shoulder and arm from herniated disk at C6/7 until I had an epidural. It changed my life to the extent that I could return to work and generally carry on a 'normal' life. They dont last forever ( a few months ) and since I've had a nerve root block which has also been brilliant for 5 months now. I am not cured obviously and am not totally pain free but am so much better, and of course you dont get all the nasty side effects that you get wth oral pain relief. Would definately give them a try if I were you. Best of luck.

[grnmaj]

Thanks for taking the time to reply.  I will bear in mind the suggestions you offered.  Again thanks so much, you've given me hope that I can perhaps get control of this.