hottrodd
08-27-2003, 03:44 AM
Hi Everyone,
I finally have my first pain management appt. tomorrow at 3:30 :)
I am so hoping I will get a good doctor. One that will run all the tests needed, be concerned about my pain and be thoughtful when prescribing meds.
I really want a diagnosis! I am nervous because I know I will have to explain everything all over again, but I am also so thankful my primary finally sent me to get the help I need.
I am hoping for an MRI, which would be my first.I think it's my rib cage causing all my problems but at this point I just don't know anymore. I guess all I do know is I am in pain everyday, up and down like a roller coaster without a diagnosis, and just not enough pain relief from what I am taking (good sometimes, other times not so good). I am willing to try anything they will give me, good bad, bring it on.. I am also hoping it is something that I can fix somehow, not getting my hopes up, but would like to be pain free without meds, as does everyone.
Wish me luck tomorrow, appt. at 3:30 PM PST 8/27
Well wishes to all..
Hottrodd http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_up.gif
------------------
* 27 years old, male
*Chronic upper back pain for about 6 years, recently getting really bad, really stiff in the morning takes forever to get going, lasts all day everyday.
*Crackling sounds from rib cage area across upper and middle back when stretching.
* Pain, tightness and burning all day long, usually ranges from a 4 through 9 depending on the day and how my body wants to react. Usually it's at least a 6/7 all day recently, used to be an annoying 3/4 all day, which I lived with but hated.
*Problem areas are mainly around breastbone area of chest, across shoulder blades, dead center upper back, upper shoulders and back of neck. Feels as if it's muscles and bones/joints, possibly ribs.
*Muscles spasms, had a couple that were severe enough to go to ER, felt like I was having a heart attack, pain radiated through upper back to chest area.
*Taking Vicodin 5/500 Soma 350 and Celebrex 200, which also helps somewhat but not to where I am not bothered by the pain, burning, tightness ect..
*Chiropractic 3 years, PT on and off again, all of which produces results that do not last for more than the day I have them.
*Can't remember any trauma I had that would have caused all this. Don't understand how it's getting worse.
*Can't really do anything, lifting, heavy physical ect.. Try and walk and stretch when I can.
*Still undiagnosed and waiting
I finally have my first pain management appt. tomorrow at 3:30 :)
I am so hoping I will get a good doctor. One that will run all the tests needed, be concerned about my pain and be thoughtful when prescribing meds.
I really want a diagnosis! I am nervous because I know I will have to explain everything all over again, but I am also so thankful my primary finally sent me to get the help I need.
I am hoping for an MRI, which would be my first.I think it's my rib cage causing all my problems but at this point I just don't know anymore. I guess all I do know is I am in pain everyday, up and down like a roller coaster without a diagnosis, and just not enough pain relief from what I am taking (good sometimes, other times not so good). I am willing to try anything they will give me, good bad, bring it on.. I am also hoping it is something that I can fix somehow, not getting my hopes up, but would like to be pain free without meds, as does everyone.
Wish me luck tomorrow, appt. at 3:30 PM PST 8/27
Well wishes to all..
Hottrodd http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_up.gif
------------------
* 27 years old, male
*Chronic upper back pain for about 6 years, recently getting really bad, really stiff in the morning takes forever to get going, lasts all day everyday.
*Crackling sounds from rib cage area across upper and middle back when stretching.
* Pain, tightness and burning all day long, usually ranges from a 4 through 9 depending on the day and how my body wants to react. Usually it's at least a 6/7 all day recently, used to be an annoying 3/4 all day, which I lived with but hated.
*Problem areas are mainly around breastbone area of chest, across shoulder blades, dead center upper back, upper shoulders and back of neck. Feels as if it's muscles and bones/joints, possibly ribs.
*Muscles spasms, had a couple that were severe enough to go to ER, felt like I was having a heart attack, pain radiated through upper back to chest area.
*Taking Vicodin 5/500 Soma 350 and Celebrex 200, which also helps somewhat but not to where I am not bothered by the pain, burning, tightness ect..
*Chiropractic 3 years, PT on and off again, all of which produces results that do not last for more than the day I have them.
*Can't remember any trauma I had that would have caused all this. Don't understand how it's getting worse.
*Can't really do anything, lifting, heavy physical ect.. Try and walk and stretch when I can.
*Still undiagnosed and waiting
Sponsor
HockeyCrystal
08-27-2003, 06:58 AM
Hey you're luckier than me! You got a sooner appointment! I still don't go for another 2 weeks!!! I too hope you get a wonderful caring and SMART doc that will figure out what's wrong with you, but also take CARE of your pain! Good luck, my friend. And let me know EVERYTHING, for I will be in your shoes in 2 weeks.
My primary doc also thought of another reason why I'm having my shoulder pain. He thinks it could also be referred pain from the adhesions from my gallbladder surgery, and for some reason causing tender spots in my shoulder area. I do remember them telling me I may have shoulder pain in my right shoulder after my surgery.....So it very well COULD be what's causing my horrible pain... I've been so wrapped up with staying current and up on my studies, that I have kind of been ignoring the pain. I found myself taking less pain meds, and not really caring. I'm still in pain though... In fact worse pain with the smaller amount of meds. Although, the meds haven't quite worked for a while so it's not like it matters. And even though I shouldn't, when I do actually take my meds, I take more than I'm px'd. Of course since I'm taking them less often, taking more at one time isn't such a big deal, because I'm still only taking about 4 pills a day. Oh well. At least when I do take my meds, I get relief! Well, I'm gonna head to bed... I've been up too long reading a book for my Bioethics class (It really was a good book, and found that I couldn't put it down!!!) and it wasn't due to be read until Sept 2, but I started it early since it was 254 pages, but it's done now, so I actually didn't procrastinate for once. Well, I've got class at 10:30am, and it's about 5am now here, so I guess I really should try to get SOME sleep... Although I'll probably just get up and go to class then go back home and sleep some more... HAH.. Again hottrodd- GOOD LUCK!!!!!
I honestly wish you all the best!
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/love1.gif
Crystal
My primary doc also thought of another reason why I'm having my shoulder pain. He thinks it could also be referred pain from the adhesions from my gallbladder surgery, and for some reason causing tender spots in my shoulder area. I do remember them telling me I may have shoulder pain in my right shoulder after my surgery.....So it very well COULD be what's causing my horrible pain... I've been so wrapped up with staying current and up on my studies, that I have kind of been ignoring the pain. I found myself taking less pain meds, and not really caring. I'm still in pain though... In fact worse pain with the smaller amount of meds. Although, the meds haven't quite worked for a while so it's not like it matters. And even though I shouldn't, when I do actually take my meds, I take more than I'm px'd. Of course since I'm taking them less often, taking more at one time isn't such a big deal, because I'm still only taking about 4 pills a day. Oh well. At least when I do take my meds, I get relief! Well, I'm gonna head to bed... I've been up too long reading a book for my Bioethics class (It really was a good book, and found that I couldn't put it down!!!) and it wasn't due to be read until Sept 2, but I started it early since it was 254 pages, but it's done now, so I actually didn't procrastinate for once. Well, I've got class at 10:30am, and it's about 5am now here, so I guess I really should try to get SOME sleep... Although I'll probably just get up and go to class then go back home and sleep some more... HAH.. Again hottrodd- GOOD LUCK!!!!!
I honestly wish you all the best!
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/love1.gif
Crystal
VPG
08-27-2003, 08:19 PM
Hotrod,
I wish you the very best, Remember to write everything down before you go and remember to take the paper in with you. So you address everything. Nothing is worse than leaving a appointment and going gee I wish I told him this or that. I have my fingers crossed for you.
VPG
I wish you the very best, Remember to write everything down before you go and remember to take the paper in with you. So you address everything. Nothing is worse than leaving a appointment and going gee I wish I told him this or that. I have my fingers crossed for you.
VPG
HockeyCrystal
08-28-2003, 03:06 AM
hottrodd-
Was just wondering how the appointment went? Let me know! Hope things went wonderfully for you! I'm crossing my fingers for good news from you!
Much http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/love1.gif
Crystal
Was just wondering how the appointment went? Let me know! Hope things went wonderfully for you! I'm crossing my fingers for good news from you!
Much http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/love1.gif
Crystal
hottrodd
08-28-2003, 05:32 AM
Long, Long post!! Please be prepared...
Hey everyone :wave:
Before I get to my appointment, I wanted to address the issue with your shoulder Crystal. There is a good chance of the referred pain being caused by other parts of the body. About the GB surgery, I know that my wife had hers removed 2 months ago (laperscopic SP?), and they said a small percentage of people will get a pain in the right shoulder after surgery. They said it should go away though within due time, up to a week. They mentioned all of this even before the surgery.
They said it's caused by gas bubbles that travel there and create air pockets within the shoulder. Maybe this is what you have? My wife got the pain but it went away within a couple days. They said it's only like 5% of people that get it. Maybe yours didn't go away because of the length of time you went without getting your needed GB surgery. This was just a thought, and also wanted to let you know about the shoulder issue after a GB surgery, especially since we just went through it. It could also be from something else, just wanted to let you know what I have heard.
OKAY! on to the PM appointment today..
I got in there and had to fill out a TON of paperwork and release forms. As I am sitting there signing papers about not getting narcotics from any other doctors, and filling out a complete quiz on where my pain is, how it started ect.., meds I am on and dosage, meds I have tried, any surgury I have had, do I take illegal drugs, do I drink alcohol, do I smoke, also releasing them the right to give me blood and urine tests to make sure I am taking what is prescribed, and not taking illegal drugs with my meds. And the list goes on, and on!
The one form I had to sign that scared me the most was the one stating that you need to protect your medications at all times. If you lose them, or have them stolen from you, you will not get a refill! And you will go without meds for some period of time, before your next fill. You will not get refills early, you will get refills through appt. only, you will not receive refills by phone or walk in, you will not receive refills in an emergency. Then they went on about withdraw symptoms on the backside, stating the symptoms and ending with "they are uncomfortable and are NOT a life or death situation, even though it feels like it". This was freaking me out!
I guess the form I was most impressed with was the one stating, you should not have to live in pain, that's why your here at pain management, there are lot's of tests, treatments and medications that can control pain, we specialize in giving you a quality of life back that you deserve, just ask one of our friendly staff if you need help, or have any questions.
I got this appt. really fast so there was no time for them to give ALL of this paperwork ahead of time like you Crystal. I know it was just standard protocol, but was I sure glad when I finally finished 40 minutes later.
So after all of that I went in for my first "consultation", this is what they called it.
I was pretty happy with the doctor I saw. He seemed very concerned and did a complete in depth exam. He had me doing all sorts of stuff and asked a TON of questions, writing down everything as we went along.
He thinks it might be my facet (SP?) joints in the thoracic area causing my pain across my upper back through the shoulder blades and creating a circle of pain around my lower chest area, but could also be a rib cage problem. He also stated my cervical problems seemed like referred pain, as my primary already stated to me. He asked about my X-rays and which kind I got, was wondering if I had a chest x-ray to show my rib cage from the front. He wants me to bring the films to him and the reports.
He heard my history and my problems, then also started feeling for tender or pain spots, which I had several trigger points as he stated, and tender areas (knee joints, collar bone, bottom chest, pelvis joints, elbows ect.. / GEEZ! I didn't even realize I had these tender/painful feelings in these areas before he started pushing on them) He said it's a strong possibility I have Fibromyalgia, but wanted to rule out other problems, he started rambling off different ones.
He wanted to give me cortizone shots, but since I have had them already within the last couple months, he changed his mind. He also asked about PT, which they do there, which I have been a part of. I told him it doesn't help and I do pretty much everything they do but at home when I can and feel up to it. He accepted that answer and did not push the issue.
So then.... I finally got my wish to getting one step close to a diagnosis.. He is sending me to my very first MRI, and was so confused as to why I have not gotten one sooner with all of my problems. He ordered it for all three areas, cervical, thoracic, and lumbar. i then got my second wish, he says he is sending me also to a Rheumatologist to check for Fibromyalgia and other muscle, joint and blood related diseases/syndromes. I was so happy at this point. He says how does this sound? I had to keep from laughing like a crazy person. I couldn't believe I was on my way! Not one but two refferals, AND the ones I have been waiting for! Without asking for them!
On to the meds... I was not to concerned about this because he explained it to me. He said keep taking what I am taking even though it's not helping a whole lot. Let's get through these refferals, it should not take long, and in the mean time it's okay to get refills from your primary.
He says, let's see what the tests show, then go from there. He mentioned some of the chain of command meds usually followed buy most docs, plus expressed the tylenol issue as well to me. He threw out words like Vicodin ES, Percocet, Norco, Lortab, MS Contin, Oxycontin. He said this is just the consultation but after we can get more info, he is going to tackle my med issue's. He says we can do whatever it takes to help you! I was actually fine with this, not getting new meds from what I am already taking. I mean the only thing I can see changing would be upping the Vicodin 5/500 to something different, at least it takes the edge off in the time being, with my Soma.
I am willing to try anything, and willing to follow the "Chain of Commands" concerning the medication order that's like an unwritten law by most docs. I knew that this was just a consult. He was not going to get his feet wet with my problems and then all of a sudden say hey why don't we give you this med, and this one too, especially on the first appt! I was not expecting this at all, as to get my hopes up to soon. I was just happy I got both refferals I wanted without asking. I am on my way to a diagnosis, then I can deal with the meds, and or whatever comes my way.
I know this was soooooo long of a post.. I know I bored half of you. I am sorry, I just needed to express myself and even if you can't read through everything I have written today. It's still good for me to get it out. Today was a VERY good day.
And Crystal.. I just know your appt. will go just as well. I am sure you will get the tests and diagnosis you have been waiting for. And even if not on the first appt. you will also get the treatments you need, including proper meds. :)
VPG.. Thanks for the great advice. I did bring my notes with me because that IS the worst feeling of leaving your appt. and forgetting to say something. Thanks for your well wishes :)
I hope everyone is having a pain free day, and to those who are not, I am praying for you.
hottrodd http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_up.gif
------------------
* 27 years old, male
*Chronic upper back pain for about 6 years, recently getting really bad, really stiff in the morning takes forever to get going, lasts all day everyday.
*Crackling sounds from rib cage area across upper and middle back when stretching.
* Pain, tightness and burning all day long, usually ranges from a 4 through 9 depending on the day and how my body wants to react. Usually it's at least a 6/7 all day recently, used to be an annoying 3/4 all day, which I lived with but hated.
*Problem areas are mainly around breastbone area of chest, across shoulder blades, dead center upper back, upper shoulders and back of neck. Feels as if it's muscles and bones/joints, possibly ribs.
*Muscles spasms, had a couple that were severe enough to go to ER, felt like I was having a heart attack, pain radiated through upper back to chest area.
*Taking Vicodin 5/500 Soma 350 and Celebrex 200, which also helps somewhat but not to where I am not bothered by the pain, burning, tightness ect..
*Chiropractic 3 years, PT on and off again, all of which produces results that do not last for more than the day I have them.
*Can't remember any trauma I had that would have caused all this. Don't understand how it's getting worse.
*Can't really do anything, lifting, heavy physical ect.. Try and walk and stretch when I can.
*Still undiagnosed and waiting
[This message has been edited by hottrodd (edited 08-28-2003).]
Hey everyone :wave:
Before I get to my appointment, I wanted to address the issue with your shoulder Crystal. There is a good chance of the referred pain being caused by other parts of the body. About the GB surgery, I know that my wife had hers removed 2 months ago (laperscopic SP?), and they said a small percentage of people will get a pain in the right shoulder after surgery. They said it should go away though within due time, up to a week. They mentioned all of this even before the surgery.
They said it's caused by gas bubbles that travel there and create air pockets within the shoulder. Maybe this is what you have? My wife got the pain but it went away within a couple days. They said it's only like 5% of people that get it. Maybe yours didn't go away because of the length of time you went without getting your needed GB surgery. This was just a thought, and also wanted to let you know about the shoulder issue after a GB surgery, especially since we just went through it. It could also be from something else, just wanted to let you know what I have heard.
OKAY! on to the PM appointment today..
I got in there and had to fill out a TON of paperwork and release forms. As I am sitting there signing papers about not getting narcotics from any other doctors, and filling out a complete quiz on where my pain is, how it started ect.., meds I am on and dosage, meds I have tried, any surgury I have had, do I take illegal drugs, do I drink alcohol, do I smoke, also releasing them the right to give me blood and urine tests to make sure I am taking what is prescribed, and not taking illegal drugs with my meds. And the list goes on, and on!
The one form I had to sign that scared me the most was the one stating that you need to protect your medications at all times. If you lose them, or have them stolen from you, you will not get a refill! And you will go without meds for some period of time, before your next fill. You will not get refills early, you will get refills through appt. only, you will not receive refills by phone or walk in, you will not receive refills in an emergency. Then they went on about withdraw symptoms on the backside, stating the symptoms and ending with "they are uncomfortable and are NOT a life or death situation, even though it feels like it". This was freaking me out!
I guess the form I was most impressed with was the one stating, you should not have to live in pain, that's why your here at pain management, there are lot's of tests, treatments and medications that can control pain, we specialize in giving you a quality of life back that you deserve, just ask one of our friendly staff if you need help, or have any questions.
I got this appt. really fast so there was no time for them to give ALL of this paperwork ahead of time like you Crystal. I know it was just standard protocol, but was I sure glad when I finally finished 40 minutes later.
So after all of that I went in for my first "consultation", this is what they called it.
I was pretty happy with the doctor I saw. He seemed very concerned and did a complete in depth exam. He had me doing all sorts of stuff and asked a TON of questions, writing down everything as we went along.
He thinks it might be my facet (SP?) joints in the thoracic area causing my pain across my upper back through the shoulder blades and creating a circle of pain around my lower chest area, but could also be a rib cage problem. He also stated my cervical problems seemed like referred pain, as my primary already stated to me. He asked about my X-rays and which kind I got, was wondering if I had a chest x-ray to show my rib cage from the front. He wants me to bring the films to him and the reports.
He heard my history and my problems, then also started feeling for tender or pain spots, which I had several trigger points as he stated, and tender areas (knee joints, collar bone, bottom chest, pelvis joints, elbows ect.. / GEEZ! I didn't even realize I had these tender/painful feelings in these areas before he started pushing on them) He said it's a strong possibility I have Fibromyalgia, but wanted to rule out other problems, he started rambling off different ones.
He wanted to give me cortizone shots, but since I have had them already within the last couple months, he changed his mind. He also asked about PT, which they do there, which I have been a part of. I told him it doesn't help and I do pretty much everything they do but at home when I can and feel up to it. He accepted that answer and did not push the issue.
So then.... I finally got my wish to getting one step close to a diagnosis.. He is sending me to my very first MRI, and was so confused as to why I have not gotten one sooner with all of my problems. He ordered it for all three areas, cervical, thoracic, and lumbar. i then got my second wish, he says he is sending me also to a Rheumatologist to check for Fibromyalgia and other muscle, joint and blood related diseases/syndromes. I was so happy at this point. He says how does this sound? I had to keep from laughing like a crazy person. I couldn't believe I was on my way! Not one but two refferals, AND the ones I have been waiting for! Without asking for them!
On to the meds... I was not to concerned about this because he explained it to me. He said keep taking what I am taking even though it's not helping a whole lot. Let's get through these refferals, it should not take long, and in the mean time it's okay to get refills from your primary.
He says, let's see what the tests show, then go from there. He mentioned some of the chain of command meds usually followed buy most docs, plus expressed the tylenol issue as well to me. He threw out words like Vicodin ES, Percocet, Norco, Lortab, MS Contin, Oxycontin. He said this is just the consultation but after we can get more info, he is going to tackle my med issue's. He says we can do whatever it takes to help you! I was actually fine with this, not getting new meds from what I am already taking. I mean the only thing I can see changing would be upping the Vicodin 5/500 to something different, at least it takes the edge off in the time being, with my Soma.
I am willing to try anything, and willing to follow the "Chain of Commands" concerning the medication order that's like an unwritten law by most docs. I knew that this was just a consult. He was not going to get his feet wet with my problems and then all of a sudden say hey why don't we give you this med, and this one too, especially on the first appt! I was not expecting this at all, as to get my hopes up to soon. I was just happy I got both refferals I wanted without asking. I am on my way to a diagnosis, then I can deal with the meds, and or whatever comes my way.
I know this was soooooo long of a post.. I know I bored half of you. I am sorry, I just needed to express myself and even if you can't read through everything I have written today. It's still good for me to get it out. Today was a VERY good day.
And Crystal.. I just know your appt. will go just as well. I am sure you will get the tests and diagnosis you have been waiting for. And even if not on the first appt. you will also get the treatments you need, including proper meds. :)
VPG.. Thanks for the great advice. I did bring my notes with me because that IS the worst feeling of leaving your appt. and forgetting to say something. Thanks for your well wishes :)
I hope everyone is having a pain free day, and to those who are not, I am praying for you.
hottrodd http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_up.gif
------------------
* 27 years old, male
*Chronic upper back pain for about 6 years, recently getting really bad, really stiff in the morning takes forever to get going, lasts all day everyday.
*Crackling sounds from rib cage area across upper and middle back when stretching.
* Pain, tightness and burning all day long, usually ranges from a 4 through 9 depending on the day and how my body wants to react. Usually it's at least a 6/7 all day recently, used to be an annoying 3/4 all day, which I lived with but hated.
*Problem areas are mainly around breastbone area of chest, across shoulder blades, dead center upper back, upper shoulders and back of neck. Feels as if it's muscles and bones/joints, possibly ribs.
*Muscles spasms, had a couple that were severe enough to go to ER, felt like I was having a heart attack, pain radiated through upper back to chest area.
*Taking Vicodin 5/500 Soma 350 and Celebrex 200, which also helps somewhat but not to where I am not bothered by the pain, burning, tightness ect..
*Chiropractic 3 years, PT on and off again, all of which produces results that do not last for more than the day I have them.
*Can't remember any trauma I had that would have caused all this. Don't understand how it's getting worse.
*Can't really do anything, lifting, heavy physical ect.. Try and walk and stretch when I can.
*Still undiagnosed and waiting
[This message has been edited by hottrodd (edited 08-28-2003).]
grizzk62
08-28-2003, 10:05 AM
hottrod,
Het I'm so happy that you a positive experience w/PM DR. And from what you have said so far you are going into this transition with the right mental attitutde. Please keep us informed as to you progess. Again I'm very happy for you and everything looks like at the verylest they are going to relieve your pain. Thats great. Take good care my friend....
Matt
Het I'm so happy that you a positive experience w/PM DR. And from what you have said so far you are going into this transition with the right mental attitutde. Please keep us informed as to you progess. Again I'm very happy for you and everything looks like at the verylest they are going to relieve your pain. Thats great. Take good care my friend....
Matt
Mo7609
08-28-2003, 02:49 PM
Hi Hotrodd,
So glad that your PM visit went well. My didn't and have had the PM Dr give me ESI twice and then found out that he never even looked at my MRI reports so he was going in blind.So I fired him! I told my PCP that I will not go back to him and he was happy about that since he was not too thrilled with the man either. What part of So Cal are you in and if I can ask who is your PM Dr. I am currently looking to find a new one that can help me with my pain.. thanks Mo
So glad that your PM visit went well. My didn't and have had the PM Dr give me ESI twice and then found out that he never even looked at my MRI reports so he was going in blind.So I fired him! I told my PCP that I will not go back to him and he was happy about that since he was not too thrilled with the man either. What part of So Cal are you in and if I can ask who is your PM Dr. I am currently looking to find a new one that can help me with my pain.. thanks Mo
HockeyCrystal
08-28-2003, 03:10 PM
Hey hottrodd-
I'm so so so happy your appointment went well! This gives me hopes for mine! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_up.gif So, anyway, my regular doc does believe my shoulder pain is caused by some kind of referred pain and it's causing trigger points for some reason in my shoulder making it hurt even more.... That's why things done directly to my shoulder haven't really helped much of anything... He thinks it's from my gallbladder, and I guess I agree it could be that, but not completely sure. I know about the CO2 traveling to the shoulder, which causes pain directly after surgery, but I had my surgery 2 1/2 yrs ago!!! Hah....I had a tad bit of shoulder pain after the surgery, but of course it went away. But I've had pain, almost since the surgery. I think something is off about the pain from gallbladder all of a sudden...Unless my adhesions are growing worse and worse and pulling on things...
Well, I gotta go study for a 100 point quiz I have later on today, sO I'll write more after I get out of my classes tonight.
And I'm so glad things went well for you hottrodd. And my doc too didn't want to rule out fibro, but he also said that at this point, he didn't want to "bog me down" with this diagnosis....
Talk to you soon my friend!
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/love1.gif
Crystal
I'm so so so happy your appointment went well! This gives me hopes for mine! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_up.gif So, anyway, my regular doc does believe my shoulder pain is caused by some kind of referred pain and it's causing trigger points for some reason in my shoulder making it hurt even more.... That's why things done directly to my shoulder haven't really helped much of anything... He thinks it's from my gallbladder, and I guess I agree it could be that, but not completely sure. I know about the CO2 traveling to the shoulder, which causes pain directly after surgery, but I had my surgery 2 1/2 yrs ago!!! Hah....I had a tad bit of shoulder pain after the surgery, but of course it went away. But I've had pain, almost since the surgery. I think something is off about the pain from gallbladder all of a sudden...Unless my adhesions are growing worse and worse and pulling on things...
Well, I gotta go study for a 100 point quiz I have later on today, sO I'll write more after I get out of my classes tonight.
And I'm so glad things went well for you hottrodd. And my doc too didn't want to rule out fibro, but he also said that at this point, he didn't want to "bog me down" with this diagnosis....
Talk to you soon my friend!
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/love1.gif
Crystal
Disavowed
08-28-2003, 10:25 PM
Hottrodd....I am so happy for you..I have read your posts and was hoping for a good turnout...my husband also had a PM appt today for the first time...he was in a car accident in March...the funny thing is I have been dealing with this pain for over a year and I go to a lousy PM dr which I steered him away from....he goes the first time and gets a specialized test ordered to diagnose where the pain is....I feel now like I have felt in the past....many dr's, not all mind you, but many, do not take women's problems and pain as serious as a man's....it may not seem that way for you since you have been through so much....but in my experience at the dr's office, I notice how men are treated in relation to women...and it is totally different...usually a more agressive approach is taken for men.....I said usually....it would be interesting if I went to the same dr as my husband just to see how he regards my situation...hang in there and good luck with the referrals as well....I have been to a rheumatologist in the past, mainly they do a lot of blood tests...that will help ease your mind....but fibromyalgia is a tough one....it is hard for some drs to diagnose it...because there are so many symptoms that mimic other things....which I guess is why they do the tests to rule out things such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other auto-immune conditions...so that will be an important appointment for you.....take care...
Kimberbella
08-29-2003, 01:55 AM
Hottrod!!!
I am so happy for you!! It sounds like your appointment couldnt have gone better... plus TWO referels! WOW! Finally!! YEAY!! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dance.gif Keep us posted! :D
Love and Prayers!
Kim :)
[This message has been edited by Kimberbella (edited 08-29-2003).]
I am so happy for you!! It sounds like your appointment couldnt have gone better... plus TWO referels! WOW! Finally!! YEAY!! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dance.gif Keep us posted! :D
Love and Prayers!
Kim :)
[This message has been edited by Kimberbella (edited 08-29-2003).]
hottrodd
08-29-2003, 07:16 AM
Hey everyone..
I wanted to thank you guys for the well wishes. It means a lot to me, having everyone hoping for good news. I know sometimes we have "bad news" and it's not fun, we try and work through it. I think when one of us has a good Dr. visit or great experience with a certain med, test or treatment, we all feel like there is hope!
To answer and comment ..
("What part of So Cal are you in and if I can ask who is your PM Dr." ?)
I live in the San Gabriel Valley, it's about 40 minutes outside of L.A.
My doctor that I saw on this first PM visit was Dr. Lowe, not sure how you spell the last name, but pronounced "low". I am going to the West Covina Pain Management & Rehab Center. They also have a Pasadena location. I had my choice of either one, I chose this one because it's about 10 minutes from my house, instead of the 25 minute drive with the possibility of traffic on some days. So far it seems like I have chosen correctly :)
("My doc too didn't want to rule out fibro, but he also said that at this point, he didn't want to "bog me down" with this diagnosis")
This is very true Crystal, I do not want to be labeled with Fibro and then just forget about anything else that may be wrong. I am and will make sure they do every other test they can. I want to rule everything else out first.
I am worried because Fibro does not have a certain test like blood they can check. They have to rely on trigger points and case history. Also Fibro is sometimes confused with another problem because it's so similar to other things that can be wrong. This worries me, how many people have Fibro but really have something else wrong, and they got a mis-diagnosis or early to soon diagnosis, mainly because there is no solid testing foundation to go by? This is what's stressing me out!
I will just have to wait and see what the tests say.
QUESTIONS:
Am I right when I say my MRI can show problems with my spine, yet still have something like fibro or similar as well?
Also does an MRI show my rib cage and muscles? If not what tests do show rib cage alignment and muscles/ligaments?
I just have this feeling that's my problem, not my spine. X-rays do not show anything wrong with my rib cage, yet I can see where my big rib is pushed out in the front on the left side, which wraps around my back under the shoulder blade, where all of my pain started. Maybe I am just plain wrong.. Just hope I can get a real answer as to why it's like that.
I will keep everyone posted.. and if anyone can help with some insight on my questions, that would really be great!
I am in pain, so I need to go take a pain pill and muscle relaxer and lie down.. Good night
Hottrodd
[This message has been edited by hottrodd (edited 08-29-2003).]
I wanted to thank you guys for the well wishes. It means a lot to me, having everyone hoping for good news. I know sometimes we have "bad news" and it's not fun, we try and work through it. I think when one of us has a good Dr. visit or great experience with a certain med, test or treatment, we all feel like there is hope!
To answer and comment ..
("What part of So Cal are you in and if I can ask who is your PM Dr." ?)
I live in the San Gabriel Valley, it's about 40 minutes outside of L.A.
My doctor that I saw on this first PM visit was Dr. Lowe, not sure how you spell the last name, but pronounced "low". I am going to the West Covina Pain Management & Rehab Center. They also have a Pasadena location. I had my choice of either one, I chose this one because it's about 10 minutes from my house, instead of the 25 minute drive with the possibility of traffic on some days. So far it seems like I have chosen correctly :)
("My doc too didn't want to rule out fibro, but he also said that at this point, he didn't want to "bog me down" with this diagnosis")
This is very true Crystal, I do not want to be labeled with Fibro and then just forget about anything else that may be wrong. I am and will make sure they do every other test they can. I want to rule everything else out first.
I am worried because Fibro does not have a certain test like blood they can check. They have to rely on trigger points and case history. Also Fibro is sometimes confused with another problem because it's so similar to other things that can be wrong. This worries me, how many people have Fibro but really have something else wrong, and they got a mis-diagnosis or early to soon diagnosis, mainly because there is no solid testing foundation to go by? This is what's stressing me out!
I will just have to wait and see what the tests say.
QUESTIONS:
Am I right when I say my MRI can show problems with my spine, yet still have something like fibro or similar as well?
Also does an MRI show my rib cage and muscles? If not what tests do show rib cage alignment and muscles/ligaments?
I just have this feeling that's my problem, not my spine. X-rays do not show anything wrong with my rib cage, yet I can see where my big rib is pushed out in the front on the left side, which wraps around my back under the shoulder blade, where all of my pain started. Maybe I am just plain wrong.. Just hope I can get a real answer as to why it's like that.
I will keep everyone posted.. and if anyone can help with some insight on my questions, that would really be great!
I am in pain, so I need to go take a pain pill and muscle relaxer and lie down.. Good night
Hottrodd
[This message has been edited by hottrodd (edited 08-29-2003).]
Mo7609
08-29-2003, 09:50 AM
Thanks Hottrodd for the reply. Unfortunatlly I live in Oceanside and that is a bit far from me :( Well I will keep on searching for some one good. Take cAre and good luck to you! Mo
Disavowed
08-29-2003, 04:20 PM
Hey Hottrodd....I was reading your response and was wondering if anyone has ever told you about the Psoas muscle? pronounced Soas....the reason I ask, is because this is a very important muscle in the body...and a very long muscle...which in my understanding can cause rib pain..as mine did....this is exactly what I believe to be my problem....and after today, I am convinced of it....I took my husband to his PM dr appt...my husband has never had much pain in his life, but a car accident has caused some back spasms etc.....well, when I started asking the dr about the procedure he just did on my husband, the dr became curious as to what line of work I was in...I said...nothing now...since I lost my job to my chronic pain...I told him briefly what I had experienced...and he immediately said that it sounded like the Psoas Muscle...last winter when I started seeing the chiropractor and massage therapist, I learned about this muscle....and whenever they did any kind of release on this muscle, I did get relief, short term....this dr said that an injection can be made into this muscle to relax it.....I have been trying to stretch this muscle and before I started massage therapy recently, the bottom of my rib hurt also....much like you describe....the Psoas I believe also runs up into the shoulder area and may be in the neck as well...comes down and to the front near the hip bone and side...but i felt a lot in the rib cage area.....if you have had any kind of PT they may have addressed that already....but just wanted to throw that out....
also, i learned today that not all Pain Mgmt dr's are created equal...this one today was extremely knowledgable and proactive....amazing difference from mine...so for anyone who is not happy with the outcome of their PM dr...look around....talk to more than one...but don't let them know you are talking to others....because that could change their whole perspective....
good luck Hottrodd..again...glad you had a good visit
also, i learned today that not all Pain Mgmt dr's are created equal...this one today was extremely knowledgable and proactive....amazing difference from mine...so for anyone who is not happy with the outcome of their PM dr...look around....talk to more than one...but don't let them know you are talking to others....because that could change their whole perspective....
good luck Hottrodd..again...glad you had a good visit