Just found Medhelp

[Cammiecat]

I just joined so I guess that would make me new.  I'm not new to pain though.  In 2004 I fell and suffered a right broken ankle in three places (trimalleolar fracture).  At the same time, although I wouldn't know it for two years, all the ligaments in my left ankle were torn.  In 2004, my right ankle was repaired at Mayo.  In 2006 my left ankle had to be reconstructed.  Ever since then I have been in pain.  Some days it is worse and some days it is better.  I also have bilateral carpel tunnel syndrome.  When the two act up together it is hard to keep a positive outlook on life.  Yesterday was one of those days.  So today, I was very happy to find MedHelp.  I'm hoping that this forum will help me manage my pain with alternatives to narcotics.

[Cammiecat]

Thank you Tuck and Jolly.  I'll check out pain management clinics.  I know there is one at Mayo, but it is very expensive.  I'll also check the regional university medical schools.

Tuck, your friend who had her second reconstructive surgery.... how long was it between surgeries?  And do you know why they had to do a second one?

[Tuckamore]

Hi Cammiecat,

I am sorry to hear about your pain. I am glad that you found MedHelp. I have found support, friends and information here that I never thought possible. I am hopeful that you will findl the same.

Jollyman is correct. A Pain Management Clinic will often offer treatments & procedures other than narcotics.  I would ask your PCP for a referral if you haven't been to a PMP.

There is a corrective surgery, which I'm sure you are aware of, for Carpel Tunnel. So hopefully that will not be a lifelong challenge for you. My friend suffered a severe ankle injury years ago that tore her ligaments and tendons as well as severely fractured the bones in her ankle. Approximately 12 months ago she underwent her second reconstructive surgery. She does not take narcotics.

Again I am very glad you found us. I hope you will become an active member of our community. Take Care, Tuck

[jollyman069]

there are pain specialist you can go to that treat pain in amany ways rather then with narcotics..try to find one in your area and check the dr out is my best advice