Pain Meds and Treatments

[Sonflower]

I have been through a Pain Mangement Program 2 X's now.  I listen to soothing sounds to help me fall asleep, I PACE myself, I pratice Divermatic Breathing Skills, and various other relaxation techniques I learnt in the program. Some prove to be very helpful.

However; I have run out of meds and treatment to try...

For several years I have tried various pain meds and various treatments prescribed and monitored by a Pain Management Doctor, to asist with the chronic pain.  And, "yes" many have help or at least taken the edge off for periods of time usually, but now this time.

However; it seems as though I am getting immune to the meds...   I have taken Morphine, Methodone, or used the Fentyal Pain Patch.  I will take one for a long time until it is no longer effective, then rotate to the next etc, etc, etc. For brake through pain I rotate back and forth from Norco or Perecet. I have taken Neurontin, Trazadone, anti-depressants, various muscle relaxants.

I have had several injection for shoulder and hip pain. I have a TENS for electrical Nerve Stimulation. I have tried warm water and PT, heating pads and should buy stock in good old Ben Gay.

I vist Hot Springs as often as possible.....  what else am I to do?  I have been suffering with a Flare Up and nothing seems to help much anymore.

Welcoming possible helpful suggestion(s);  Thanks Sonflower

[Tuckamore]

Hello Sonflower,

Welcome back to MedHelp. I am sorry to hear that nothing is working for you anymore. It certainly sounds like you have been through the gamete of options.

I have a theory that is supported by many physicians. We don't so often become immune or tolerant to our narcotic medications as is more common our condition deteriorates, meaning it just becomes worse.

So my question would be have you had recent imaging or tests to determine if there has been a change for the worse in your condition? I apologize that I do not know the reason for your chronic pain. Sometimes we obtain a diagnosis and the physician(s) (and we also) just assume that either it stays the same or nothing new develops. Is it possible that you have something else going on besides the original diagnosis? Or could it be that your initial condition has just progressively gotten worse. Sometimes thing change and there is something that can be done to correct the situation or the new problem. I would want to make sure that nothing has changed.

I also have heard (as Mollyrae suggested) that some ppl experience significant pain releif with the implantation of a pain pump. If your condition remains unchanged it may be worth discussing this possibility with your PMP.

I assume you have also seen a Pain Management Therapist. If not you might also want to consider seeing one....or of you have and it's been a few years you may want to consult with another therapist.

I know how frustrating it can be to have uncontrolled pain. I am limited to taking a not-so-potent narcotic, as I am either allergic to or just can not tolerate the "Big Dogs." I have moments, even days that I am beside myself with pain.  Like you I have a routine that helps get me through those days.

Again I don't know the source of your pain but I see a D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathy). Often when my pain is severe her manipulations to realign and return my body into correct alignment eases the extreme pain. She also performs myofascial releases which also helps with the flares. If you have not seen a DO that practices OMT you may want to consider that option.  

I wish I had a magic answer for you. In my experience anger and frustration can often go hand in hand with uncontrolled chronic pain. My heart goes out to you.

I hope you will let us know how you are doing and if you are able to find a resolution to your pain issues. I will look forward to hearing from you again.

Take Care,
~Tuck

[Mollyrae]

Well, I would recommend that if nothing is working anymore, maybe it's time to ask about the Pain Pump. I have heard that as a last resort for Chronic Pain Patients, many have gone to the Pump and have had sucess. Ask your Pain Management Doctor about it.

My best,
Molly