Ready to take this disk out!

[backtomyselfoneday]

Ok, long story short. 4 years ago I hurt my back. L5-S1 and 3 other bulging disks. I was too I was too Young for surgery, etc. In the meantime, I've had all kinds of physical therapy, including ultrasounds and electro shock treatments. None of it helped. I had 5 epidurals, didn't help. I've h5 massage and chiroprator work, which made it worse. Been on Relafen. Neurontin, Vicodin, Tramadol, muscle relaxers... You name it. At this point, to be honest, I want the effin thing outta me. I can't sit, drive, or get comfortable.
I am going to finally see a pain management Dr next week. What do I say to him?! I feel like I've tried everything under the sun. My pain is caused by a herniated disk or two, at least 3 other bulging disks. I'm at my wits end with this pain, and I want to get back to doing the things I love. I've even lost 15 pounds to help, but no luck! Any suggestions on what to tell my PM doctor?! Thanks guys!

[backtomyselfoneday]

Thanks for your response Tuck! And I want to say that my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. You are such a positive support person here, and I've found joy in reading your posts.
I know I'm in the same boat as so many other CP sufferers, so its nice to have a place to come where people understand me! Previous doctors have all said that I was too young for surgery, etc. Well after 4 years of this horrible pain, I'm sick of putting a "band-aid" on the problem. The vicodin just wasn't cutting it after 4 years and I was taking more and more but it just didn't do it for me anymore. To be honest, it only ever took the edge off anyway. My PCP wouldn't prescribe anything else for me, other than Neurontin, but it was the same as taking advil to me. I stopped taking my vicodin cold turkey one day when I was frustrated with my pain. I said, if this isn't making me comfortable, than why am I taking all this aspirin?! Now, a month later, I am barel mobile. I understand that I may never be totally pain free, but I hope to at least get comfortable, so I can enjoy life, and remain somewhat active. Ugh.

[Tuckamore]

Hello Backtomyselfoneday,

I certainly understand your frustration with your chronic pain and your need for pain management. I am sorry for both.

Please don't be too quick to rush into surgery or insist on it. I saw your post on another forum with your MRI results. Although there are definite reasons for your pain it may not be to the degree that surgery is required. When was the MRI done?

I know 4 years is a long time but remember that surgery does not come with a guarantee, otherwise we would all have it immediately. Once the structure is changed and you have an invasive procedure you are subject to even more issues, including continued chronic pain or possibly even increased pain.

I am glad that you are going to see a PMP. He/she may have better options for you. Be open and honest. Tell him what you have told us, how very frustrated you are with dealing with the challenges of chronic pain. He may suggest repeats of procedures you have already had, don't dismiss them without some thought. Sometimes a new technician or another round of treatments can be effective.

You will probably be required to sign a PM Contract. Be sure to read it well and address any parts that bring you concern. Remember those contracts are designed to protect the PMP and the clinic, not necessarily the patient. Be sure to request copies of everything you are asked or required to sign. Be assertive and address every issue.

Please let us know how the appointment goes. We will watch for your updates. Best of luck to you.  

Take Care,
~Tuck