What to do for so much pain?

[midnightdoc]

I started taking gabapentin 300 mg 3 to 4 times daily and Cymbalta 120 mg in the morning along with hydrocodone 5/500 3 times a day and valium 5 mg so I can sleep. About 9 months ago and I actually lost 27 pounds. I have gained that weight back now but I still have the same problems. My Doctor still says I have Fibromyalgia. I had nerve conduction study that showed carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, tarsal tunnel syndrome, polyneuropathy, 3 pinched nerves in my lower back, 2 pinched nerves in my neck. I got on this site today because my hip and thigh are burning real bad. I put 2 lidocain patches on my thigh to see if it would help. Per my trip to Mayo Clinic, they say I have Chronic Pain Syndrome, displacement of Thoracic disc T6,Spondylogenic  compression of thoracic spinal cord, cervical disc displacement (neuritis or radiculitis), lumbar disc displacement multiple places, hypercalmia, debility, and lack of cordination. 2 views of the chest x-ray demonstrates COPD. Been to Psychiatrist and they say I have major depression disorder and Social Security says I don't qualify for disability. I haven't been able to work for 9 months and with all the meds I'm on, I shouldn't even drive. Am I being treated with the correct meds?

[midnightdoc]

You can actually get a DUI in Arkansas even if you don't drink. Driving under the influence of drugs is the same charge. One of my boys is a cop and he told me that. Everyone needs to know that not just because of a fine, because you may hurt yourself or someone else. I have to make all my Doctor appointments early in the morning before I take the hydrocodone. Although some of the gabapentin capsules seem to be stronger than others in the same bottle. Thanks to everyone for your help.

[midnightdoc]

I just called Social Security and they said I should have a hearing by October. My pain is still not controlled. I tried Physical therapy and the exercises they taught me at Mayo Clinic with no help. Both hands go numb at night whether I wear the braces or not and my right elbow and shoulder hurt so dang bad that I would consider cutting the right arm and right leg off. I know that's not an option but this stuff is driving me crazy. I guess that's why they have me taking 2 60 mg Cymbalta in the morning. I think the patches helped my thigh so I moved them to my back because it is killing me there now. It's like I have some kind of critter moving around and burning me with a pitch fork. Thanks for your reply.

[nurseaudrea]

It certainly seems that you have a lot going on that would cause significant pain. I am sorry you are in so much pain. I know how depressing that can be. Like Sandee said most people get turned down the first time they apply for SSI. They make it hard for a reason. I guess they think most people will give up saving them some money. Just keep trying and hopefully you can find someone who can help you with that. I am sorry, I don't know what to tell you, as I have never filed.
It sounds like you are on the right meds as far as your symptoms go. Those are common to take with what you have described. Is your pain still not in control? If that is the case you need to tell your doctor so they can adjust it for you. After some time on narcotics you tend to build a tolerance and may need to go to something else. Especially if this is a long lasting issue. Extended Release forms of narcotics may be a better option if your pain is not in control or if you have to take them for an extended amount of time.
Good luck and best wishes.          Audrea

[midnightdoc]

Thank you.

[sandee1818]

Well you certainly have many different options. If the medications are not working then you need to have your docotr change them or the dosage. It is common to become tolerant over time and need adjustments and your doctor knows this so do not be afraid to talk to him about it.
I know alot of people here have dealt with SS and they can tell you what you need to do. It is my understanding that most do get turned down the first try.
More members will help you with that. I appreciate that you do acknowledge the risk of driving while taking medications as alot of people don't even realize the risk.