PsychLea
03-28-2003, 02:39 AM
Hi guys,
I am having such a hard day. The pain is the worst I have ever had and I haven't slept in two days, which makes it worse. I had 40 mins of heat and stim at PT today, but it only helped for about an hour, before the spasms and nerve pain started again. I am so discouraged.
Finally took some hydrocodone tonite and going to try a Sonata again, although it didn't help me sleep last nite. Maybe the combination will do it.
I really, really, really.... did I mention really don't want to have surgery. Have one more epi next Friday and going to definitely talk to my PM. Throwing antidepressants and Vistaril at me, is not the answer. I have never been one to take pain medication, but the Ultram is NOT strong enough.
Thanks for letting me vent. It is so frustrating.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
I am having such a hard day. The pain is the worst I have ever had and I haven't slept in two days, which makes it worse. I had 40 mins of heat and stim at PT today, but it only helped for about an hour, before the spasms and nerve pain started again. I am so discouraged.
Finally took some hydrocodone tonite and going to try a Sonata again, although it didn't help me sleep last nite. Maybe the combination will do it.
I really, really, really.... did I mention really don't want to have surgery. Have one more epi next Friday and going to definitely talk to my PM. Throwing antidepressants and Vistaril at me, is not the answer. I have never been one to take pain medication, but the Ultram is NOT strong enough.
Thanks for letting me vent. It is so frustrating.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
Sponsor
Debbie2
03-28-2003, 08:08 AM
Sorry to hear how you are doing here Lea, I don't think any of us ever wanted surgery. Just wanted to be out of pain... and like you pills and therapy were not an option for me.
Hope your day improves and you get some sleep. Off to Cleveland, I'll have alot of catching up to do on Sunday. Working one half day first.
God Bless you Lea,
Debbie
------------------
Debbie2
ACDF fusion (c5c6) with titanium plate and screws using donor bone -
September 4, 2002.
Hope your day improves and you get some sleep. Off to Cleveland, I'll have alot of catching up to do on Sunday. Working one half day first.
God Bless you Lea,
Debbie
------------------
Debbie2
ACDF fusion (c5c6) with titanium plate and screws using donor bone -
September 4, 2002.
mel333
03-28-2003, 08:40 AM
Hi Lea,
I'm so sorry your in so much pain. I hope the next epi helps. Have you had a nerve block? I remember reading one of your old posts re double crush syndrome. I guess your dr's recommend surgery. I am contemplating it also and I am also trying to do every injection first. The nerve pain sounds like a worry and sometimes it's best(as far as I hear) to do surgery before it progresses. The epi does neutralise it and may buy your more time. Take care,
Mel
I'm so sorry your in so much pain. I hope the next epi helps. Have you had a nerve block? I remember reading one of your old posts re double crush syndrome. I guess your dr's recommend surgery. I am contemplating it also and I am also trying to do every injection first. The nerve pain sounds like a worry and sometimes it's best(as far as I hear) to do surgery before it progresses. The epi does neutralise it and may buy your more time. Take care,
Mel
winged phantom
03-28-2003, 09:31 AM
Lea, I'm awfully sorry to hear you are in so much pain that is not being helped by anything. I know how miserable and discouraged you must feel. Try to reach out to this board and feel all the good vibrations comin' at ya, though; we're all here to try to encourage and cajole you.
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/idea.gif Ok, first stare at this :round: for a while. Repeat after me,"My eyes are getting heavvvvvyyyy." http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/tired.gif "I am getting sleeeppy." Wait for the fourth http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/yawn.gif, then drag yourself to bed and try to sleep.
wr
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/idea.gif Ok, first stare at this :round: for a while. Repeat after me,"My eyes are getting heavvvvvyyyy." http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/tired.gif "I am getting sleeeppy." Wait for the fourth http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/yawn.gif, then drag yourself to bed and try to sleep.
wr
melanie dawn
03-28-2003, 10:14 AM
Lea,
I hate to hear of your increased pain and spasm. And as you know when you start losing sleep , everything starts to snowball.
You know I understand about the meds. I was on nothing except vitamins before this.I battled my Chrones disease without ever taking meds for it, I am always so sure that I can overcome everything naturally . I held out so long against taking anything. But there comes a time when you need to take the meds. It's the quality of your life that you are dealing with. When you can't sleep, relax, laugh, or function because of the pain, you know it is time to take care of it, anyway you can. For now it means changing your meds, what about oxycontin or MS contin? I know, i didn't want to take these either, but eventually I had to give in. When I got the mscontin script , it took me a week to take one. But Lea , what a difference it makes to get a handle on the pain. Nothing makes it go away completely, but it can be made more manageable. You are so strong , but please take it easy on yourself.
I dread surgery, and after having a huge bowel resection 5 years ago for Chrones , I swore I would never have surgery again. But you know what, here I am eagerly awaiting surgery, I dont want a life of continuing pain and loss of function. I'm rambling again, but please, do what you need to do, get your meds addressed so you can control your pain, and if you need surgery, maybe its time to think about it. For you the surgery is not just about pain, you have cord issues, that probably will need to be surgically taken care of at some point. You dont want to change from pain to loss of use issues. My heart goes out to you Lea, and i see a change in you. You were the joker and good humour for so long here. Now I see you being dragged down. Pain is a monster that eats at your whole being.
Please take care of yourself. YOu are in my thoughts and prayers, I hope you can feel the hug I am sending you. Love Mel
I hate to hear of your increased pain and spasm. And as you know when you start losing sleep , everything starts to snowball.
You know I understand about the meds. I was on nothing except vitamins before this.I battled my Chrones disease without ever taking meds for it, I am always so sure that I can overcome everything naturally . I held out so long against taking anything. But there comes a time when you need to take the meds. It's the quality of your life that you are dealing with. When you can't sleep, relax, laugh, or function because of the pain, you know it is time to take care of it, anyway you can. For now it means changing your meds, what about oxycontin or MS contin? I know, i didn't want to take these either, but eventually I had to give in. When I got the mscontin script , it took me a week to take one. But Lea , what a difference it makes to get a handle on the pain. Nothing makes it go away completely, but it can be made more manageable. You are so strong , but please take it easy on yourself.
I dread surgery, and after having a huge bowel resection 5 years ago for Chrones , I swore I would never have surgery again. But you know what, here I am eagerly awaiting surgery, I dont want a life of continuing pain and loss of function. I'm rambling again, but please, do what you need to do, get your meds addressed so you can control your pain, and if you need surgery, maybe its time to think about it. For you the surgery is not just about pain, you have cord issues, that probably will need to be surgically taken care of at some point. You dont want to change from pain to loss of use issues. My heart goes out to you Lea, and i see a change in you. You were the joker and good humour for so long here. Now I see you being dragged down. Pain is a monster that eats at your whole being.
Please take care of yourself. YOu are in my thoughts and prayers, I hope you can feel the hug I am sending you. Love Mel
joprud
03-28-2003, 05:16 PM
Hi Lea,
I'm sooo sorry you're hurting so bad. I really, really, really hope you find some relief really soon, really :)
You call that venting...have you SEEN my whine fests... If they tolerate me, trust me no one will have any problem with your mild vent. :D (I'm just slowly comming back from a bad flare myself)
Kidding aside...I'm sure you know we will always be here for you no matter what. I know we can't help with the pain level, but as I've learned over and over again these boards can certainly help you with dealing with it...with all the kind words, support, and good vibes, and most importantly the laughs.
I know what you mean about the pain meds...I hate taking them too. But I gotta agree with Mel sometimes ya just got to. I, like Mel, would never take anything but vitamins. Now, I'm willing to try anything just to try to escape the pain.
Good vibes and thoughts haeding your way. :)
Take Care, :wave:
Joanne
------------------
At the age of 8, Sept ‘63, bad fall on back on stairs compression fractures of D6 and D8
Diagnosed DDD 1993
C4-C5 posterior osteophytic bar effacing ventral thecal sac Mild stenosis of neural foramina
C5-C6 posterior disc protrusion effacing v t s .Mild stenosis of neural foramina
C6-C7 posterior disc herniation effacing v t s . Mild stenosis of neural foramina
C7-T1 Small perineural cysts present in both neural foramina.
left convex scoliosis of mid thoracic spine. wedging of T7. wedging of T5 .degenerative end plate changes at T8-T9
L4-L5 diffuse disc bulge effacing v t s. hypertrophy of facet joints, minimal central spinal stenosis.
L5-S1 posterior disc protrusion with associated tear of annulus fibrosis. hypertrophy of facet joints.
S1-S2 Perineural cysts involving S1-S2 nerve roots.
I'm sooo sorry you're hurting so bad. I really, really, really hope you find some relief really soon, really :)
You call that venting...have you SEEN my whine fests... If they tolerate me, trust me no one will have any problem with your mild vent. :D (I'm just slowly comming back from a bad flare myself)
Kidding aside...I'm sure you know we will always be here for you no matter what. I know we can't help with the pain level, but as I've learned over and over again these boards can certainly help you with dealing with it...with all the kind words, support, and good vibes, and most importantly the laughs.
I know what you mean about the pain meds...I hate taking them too. But I gotta agree with Mel sometimes ya just got to. I, like Mel, would never take anything but vitamins. Now, I'm willing to try anything just to try to escape the pain.
Good vibes and thoughts haeding your way. :)
Take Care, :wave:
Joanne
------------------
At the age of 8, Sept ‘63, bad fall on back on stairs compression fractures of D6 and D8
Diagnosed DDD 1993
C4-C5 posterior osteophytic bar effacing ventral thecal sac Mild stenosis of neural foramina
C5-C6 posterior disc protrusion effacing v t s .Mild stenosis of neural foramina
C6-C7 posterior disc herniation effacing v t s . Mild stenosis of neural foramina
C7-T1 Small perineural cysts present in both neural foramina.
left convex scoliosis of mid thoracic spine. wedging of T7. wedging of T5 .degenerative end plate changes at T8-T9
L4-L5 diffuse disc bulge effacing v t s. hypertrophy of facet joints, minimal central spinal stenosis.
L5-S1 posterior disc protrusion with associated tear of annulus fibrosis. hypertrophy of facet joints.
S1-S2 Perineural cysts involving S1-S2 nerve roots.
joprud
03-28-2003, 05:20 PM
Wing,
Originally posted by winged phantom:
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/idea.gif Ok, first stare at this :round: for a while. Repeat after me,"My eyes are getting heavvvvvyyyy." http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/tired.gif "I am getting sleeeppy." Wait for the fourth http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/yawn.gif , then drag yourself to bed and try to sleep.
wr
That was just too cute and funny for words!!! :)
Take Care, :wave:
Joanne
Originally posted by winged phantom:
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/idea.gif Ok, first stare at this :round: for a while. Repeat after me,"My eyes are getting heavvvvvyyyy." http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/tired.gif "I am getting sleeeppy." Wait for the fourth http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/yawn.gif , then drag yourself to bed and try to sleep.
wr
That was just too cute and funny for words!!! :)
Take Care, :wave:
Joanne
winged phantom
03-28-2003, 07:02 PM
Joanne,
;) :D
wr
;) :D
wr
PsychLea
03-29-2003, 03:57 AM
Thanks guys, er gals :angel:
I really appreciate everyone here. You are the only ones who really understand. Still didn't sleep last night, but WR, I stared long and hard at those smiley faces http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dizzy.gif It really made me smile :)
I think I need stronger pain meds. I'm afraid if I talk to the PM about the pain, she will want to try Neurontin and I just can't take another med that is going to screw up my already clouded thinking. I thought PM's weren't suppose to be afraid to use narcotics? Now I have hydrocodone and Darvocet at home, but I rarely use them, that's why I still have them, because I DON'T use them except if absolutely necessary. I also have Valium and only got 2mg #30 and that Rx was filled in January. OOOOOOOOH, I'm really abusing drugs. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif
My PT and OT therapists are wonderful though. They understand what I am going through. They had to take the heat off my arm today, because the weight of the heating pad was compressing the nerve on my arm causing it to go numb. SIGH! Things just don't look good.
Mel, your right. I am literally being dragged down, but if I can get some sleep, I think it will be much better. Trying 6mg of Valium tonite. Keep your fingers crossed.
Melford, I do think surgery is inevitable and yes, my NS wanted to cut, but I wanted to try everything else first. Will give this last epi a chance, and work a little more with OT and PT and see what happens. I won't let the nerve impingement to go too far. If it doesn't let up, then I am just going to have to do it, no matter if my work is covered or not.
Debbie, thank you sweetheart for being there.
Going to try and sack out as soon as the meds or WR's hypnotism kicks in :)
------------------
God bless,
Lea
I really appreciate everyone here. You are the only ones who really understand. Still didn't sleep last night, but WR, I stared long and hard at those smiley faces http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dizzy.gif It really made me smile :)
I think I need stronger pain meds. I'm afraid if I talk to the PM about the pain, she will want to try Neurontin and I just can't take another med that is going to screw up my already clouded thinking. I thought PM's weren't suppose to be afraid to use narcotics? Now I have hydrocodone and Darvocet at home, but I rarely use them, that's why I still have them, because I DON'T use them except if absolutely necessary. I also have Valium and only got 2mg #30 and that Rx was filled in January. OOOOOOOOH, I'm really abusing drugs. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif
My PT and OT therapists are wonderful though. They understand what I am going through. They had to take the heat off my arm today, because the weight of the heating pad was compressing the nerve on my arm causing it to go numb. SIGH! Things just don't look good.
Mel, your right. I am literally being dragged down, but if I can get some sleep, I think it will be much better. Trying 6mg of Valium tonite. Keep your fingers crossed.
Melford, I do think surgery is inevitable and yes, my NS wanted to cut, but I wanted to try everything else first. Will give this last epi a chance, and work a little more with OT and PT and see what happens. I won't let the nerve impingement to go too far. If it doesn't let up, then I am just going to have to do it, no matter if my work is covered or not.
Debbie, thank you sweetheart for being there.
Going to try and sack out as soon as the meds or WR's hypnotism kicks in :)
------------------
God bless,
Lea
charlotte1
03-29-2003, 09:49 AM
Hey Lea,
I'm on neurontin again. This time I started out with lower doses and currently I am taking 200mg q 6 hours. My arms do not hurt much at all now. I'm even back on my motorcycle. I'm not pain free but I am better. Remember me, I'm the one that wanted surgery for a quicker fix. All I'm saying is the neurontin did make a difference for me. Starting out at a lower dose is the key (I believe). Hope your out of pain soon.
Charlotte
[This message has been edited by charlotte1 (edited 03-29-2003).]
I'm on neurontin again. This time I started out with lower doses and currently I am taking 200mg q 6 hours. My arms do not hurt much at all now. I'm even back on my motorcycle. I'm not pain free but I am better. Remember me, I'm the one that wanted surgery for a quicker fix. All I'm saying is the neurontin did make a difference for me. Starting out at a lower dose is the key (I believe). Hope your out of pain soon.
Charlotte
[This message has been edited by charlotte1 (edited 03-29-2003).]
BWL
03-29-2003, 10:23 AM
Lea,
I hope today finds you with some much deserved relief. I've yet to experience anything as demoralizing as the kind of pain you're experiencing.
Perhaps next Friay's epi will take the edge off a bit, in the interim I would ask your PM for something with a little more kick than vicodin. I was taking Neurontin too, but it was only the 60mg of daily percocet that helped me cope.
Try and enjoy the day, I hope it's nice by you.
Bruce :)
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
[This message has been edited by BWL (edited 03-29-2003).]
I hope today finds you with some much deserved relief. I've yet to experience anything as demoralizing as the kind of pain you're experiencing.
Perhaps next Friay's epi will take the edge off a bit, in the interim I would ask your PM for something with a little more kick than vicodin. I was taking Neurontin too, but it was only the 60mg of daily percocet that helped me cope.
Try and enjoy the day, I hope it's nice by you.
Bruce :)
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
[This message has been edited by BWL (edited 03-29-2003).]
PsychLea
03-29-2003, 08:45 PM
Charlotte,
You have a point there on the Neurontin. Maybe I could start a low dose first. Good idea. I'm willing to try anything right now. Nothing is helping. Still not sleeping. Dozed from 0300 to 0700 and got up and have been going ever since.
Tonite will try 2mg Ativan and a long hot jacuzzi bath with candles. Of course, it will be hard to keep them lit under water! :)
Bruce,
Yes this s**ks like a big dog. Husb ordering pizza tonite, and after I help my son with a school project, I'm heading for the jacuzzi. Now where did I put that rubber ducky http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/confused.gif
------------------
God bless,
Lea
You have a point there on the Neurontin. Maybe I could start a low dose first. Good idea. I'm willing to try anything right now. Nothing is helping. Still not sleeping. Dozed from 0300 to 0700 and got up and have been going ever since.
Tonite will try 2mg Ativan and a long hot jacuzzi bath with candles. Of course, it will be hard to keep them lit under water! :)
Bruce,
Yes this s**ks like a big dog. Husb ordering pizza tonite, and after I help my son with a school project, I'm heading for the jacuzzi. Now where did I put that rubber ducky http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/confused.gif
------------------
God bless,
Lea
BWL
03-29-2003, 08:56 PM
Lea,
I can't think of anything that would be better than a nice hot jacuzzi right now. Okay, a candlelit jacuzzi with Ativan. Be careful. I am so jealous. :)
Enjoy
Bruce
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
I can't think of anything that would be better than a nice hot jacuzzi right now. Okay, a candlelit jacuzzi with Ativan. Be careful. I am so jealous. :)
Enjoy
Bruce
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
Catherine with a C
03-29-2003, 09:50 PM
Lea:
so nice to see that even with your pain & sleep deprivation you are maintaining a wonderful sense of self; & humour. (i still spell many words Canadian style)! I found myself that being un-able to get a good night's sleep, at least a couple X a week really
effected my entire psyche. not to mention my mommy abilities. I too, have had to rely on percocet & Ativan. Alas, no hot tub...........keep the faith.
You are on my prayer list.
Catherine
so nice to see that even with your pain & sleep deprivation you are maintaining a wonderful sense of self; & humour. (i still spell many words Canadian style)! I found myself that being un-able to get a good night's sleep, at least a couple X a week really
effected my entire psyche. not to mention my mommy abilities. I too, have had to rely on percocet & Ativan. Alas, no hot tub...........keep the faith.
You are on my prayer list.
Catherine
lori1851
03-29-2003, 11:22 PM
Lea,
I feel for you girl!! When I went to Ortho spec I said I dont want surgery! He said well thats usually why you are sent here. That was in the middle of February!!!!! I did PT for 3 weeks and it didnt help. I could kick myself in the butt now for not letting him go ahead!!! I have done nothing but suffer!!!! I go Wed for pre op but surgery isnt until April 22!!!!!!! I think he is torturing me lol!!! Well hon hope you get feeling better!!!!
Lori Indiana
I feel for you girl!! When I went to Ortho spec I said I dont want surgery! He said well thats usually why you are sent here. That was in the middle of February!!!!! I did PT for 3 weeks and it didnt help. I could kick myself in the butt now for not letting him go ahead!!! I have done nothing but suffer!!!! I go Wed for pre op but surgery isnt until April 22!!!!!!! I think he is torturing me lol!!! Well hon hope you get feeling better!!!!
Lori Indiana
Dawn H
03-29-2003, 11:41 PM
Hi Lea, :wave:
I am sorry you are going through such a tough time right now. I am on neurontin, it works tremendously for nerve pain. I started taking it for my hands, I take 3600mg a day. I must admit it does make you very forgetful, for me right now that's a good thing! :( I have good results with skalaxin for muscle spasms. I too take ultram, I don't get much relief off of it either. I hope you get some relief soon.
Praying for pain free days.
Dawn
I am sorry you are going through such a tough time right now. I am on neurontin, it works tremendously for nerve pain. I started taking it for my hands, I take 3600mg a day. I must admit it does make you very forgetful, for me right now that's a good thing! :( I have good results with skalaxin for muscle spasms. I too take ultram, I don't get much relief off of it either. I hope you get some relief soon.
Praying for pain free days.
Dawn
PsychLea
04-01-2003, 01:43 AM
AHHHHHHHH! Finally got some sleep! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/yawn.gif
I slept 16 hours yesterday after taking 2mg of Ativan and a jacuzzi with my rubber ducky. My son thought it was a hoot that his old mama had a rubber ducky in the first place. He wasn't happy that I was in bed all day Sunday, but I think he'll live.
Pain isn't any better and after work tonite my entire left hand went numb. The chest pain is back, and I suspect it is because the epi has worn off. It was the kinda pain where all I could do was sit and grunt.
Don't know why grunting helps, but it turned my husband on :bounce:
Seriously, skipped PT and OT today to sleep, and I have the epi on Friday. Hope it helps. I am just one big mess and I am really tired of all of this, but then, aren't we all? :)
Thanks for being here for me. Can't tell you how much this board has helped me, especially in deciding what type of care options were available.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
I slept 16 hours yesterday after taking 2mg of Ativan and a jacuzzi with my rubber ducky. My son thought it was a hoot that his old mama had a rubber ducky in the first place. He wasn't happy that I was in bed all day Sunday, but I think he'll live.
Pain isn't any better and after work tonite my entire left hand went numb. The chest pain is back, and I suspect it is because the epi has worn off. It was the kinda pain where all I could do was sit and grunt.
Don't know why grunting helps, but it turned my husband on :bounce:
Seriously, skipped PT and OT today to sleep, and I have the epi on Friday. Hope it helps. I am just one big mess and I am really tired of all of this, but then, aren't we all? :)
Thanks for being here for me. Can't tell you how much this board has helped me, especially in deciding what type of care options were available.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
jbell95
04-01-2003, 09:30 AM
Lea, I am so happy to see that you were able to get a bit of sleep. That is one of my problems, not sleeping. When I went to see the neuro, he gave me Neurontin, a very low dose. I have the most vivid dreams, they seem so real. Sometimes I have to ask my friend if I actually did or said something because I can't tell. It also makes me forgetful.
I was imagining your jazzuzi and candles, that was a relaxing imag...zzzzzz, oh sorry dozed off http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/jester.gif Take care and be well. Off to see the NS this afternoon. J.
[This message has been edited by jbell95 (edited 04-01-2003).]
I was imagining your jazzuzi and candles, that was a relaxing imag...zzzzzz, oh sorry dozed off http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/jester.gif Take care and be well. Off to see the NS this afternoon. J.
[This message has been edited by jbell95 (edited 04-01-2003).]
melanie dawn
04-01-2003, 01:01 PM
HI Lea,
HOORAY!!!!!Sleep, isn't it wonderful? It's amazing how much a restorative sleep does for your whole being.
I am however sorry to hear about the numbness and chest pain. However at the least the grunting serves a purpose for your hubby, :D,
You are such a ball of spirit girl , through it all you keep a smile on your face and on ours. I always look forward to your posts, to know how you are, and to see your strength and humour shine through. You really are an encouragement to me.
Here's hoping for some pain free days, and success with the epi., and lets not forget continuing to sleep. I have to admit, I think I am a little jealous, that jacuzzi sounds so good.
As always , you are in my thoughts and prayers, Love Mel
HOORAY!!!!!Sleep, isn't it wonderful? It's amazing how much a restorative sleep does for your whole being.
I am however sorry to hear about the numbness and chest pain. However at the least the grunting serves a purpose for your hubby, :D,
You are such a ball of spirit girl , through it all you keep a smile on your face and on ours. I always look forward to your posts, to know how you are, and to see your strength and humour shine through. You really are an encouragement to me.
Here's hoping for some pain free days, and success with the epi., and lets not forget continuing to sleep. I have to admit, I think I am a little jealous, that jacuzzi sounds so good.
As always , you are in my thoughts and prayers, Love Mel
BWL
04-01-2003, 01:17 PM
Sleep? Sleep!! How dare you Lea!!
I'l have you know that since you planted the idea I can think of nothing, but an ativan and a jacuzzi. Duck would be nice, but not a deal-breaker. I think you should have all of us over for some spasm-free fun.
Remember - one silver lining. If something is numb, it won't be in pain.
Feel well, :wave:
Bruce
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
I'l have you know that since you planted the idea I can think of nothing, but an ativan and a jacuzzi. Duck would be nice, but not a deal-breaker. I think you should have all of us over for some spasm-free fun.
Remember - one silver lining. If something is numb, it won't be in pain.
Feel well, :wave:
Bruce
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
kat721
04-01-2003, 01:28 PM
Lea, So glad you are having a moment of relief in the
turbulent sea of pain management.
You posted spomething a while up there that I wanted to comment on.
Post>>I thought PM's weren't suppose to be afraid to use narcotics? Now I have hydrocodone and Darvocet at home, but I rarely use them, that's why I still have them, because I DON'T use them except if absolutely necessary<<
From what I've been reading, PM Doctors do get more
flexability to administer Narcotics and other big gun meds.
However, there are still far too many who are getting in big trouble with the law and that's where the real trouble starts.
There are a lot of Doctors who would do better if they could.
The whole thing about you saving your meds and using them at a crisis time, is pretty much what I think they really want us to do. Although it makes no senes to let a pain situation build because untreated pain leads to other problems.
However, if the patient is ultra prudent you do two things.
You show them a willingness to work with their unfortunate limitations.
And two, they get to know you as a patient and figure out what kind of consumption pattern you have.
I'm a saver too.
I work hard at keeping things balanced even if it means having a few bad days.
Which for me is double disaster because pain makes my colon shut down.
So for the now, until better understanding of real Pain Management needs gets conveyed to the powers that be, we are going to have trouble with even good doctors whoes hands are bound with rules and regulations.
But we are not without hope.
There are good Doctors who are banding together to work for the betterment of the pain patients rights and accessability to good care which can help them have a good quality of life.
Each Good day that we have is a blessing.
I'm so glad you have gotten some relief.
Hope this cycle of better pain control lasts for a nice while so you can get rested.
Hugs,
kat
turbulent sea of pain management.
You posted spomething a while up there that I wanted to comment on.
Post>>I thought PM's weren't suppose to be afraid to use narcotics? Now I have hydrocodone and Darvocet at home, but I rarely use them, that's why I still have them, because I DON'T use them except if absolutely necessary<<
From what I've been reading, PM Doctors do get more
flexability to administer Narcotics and other big gun meds.
However, there are still far too many who are getting in big trouble with the law and that's where the real trouble starts.
There are a lot of Doctors who would do better if they could.
The whole thing about you saving your meds and using them at a crisis time, is pretty much what I think they really want us to do. Although it makes no senes to let a pain situation build because untreated pain leads to other problems.
However, if the patient is ultra prudent you do two things.
You show them a willingness to work with their unfortunate limitations.
And two, they get to know you as a patient and figure out what kind of consumption pattern you have.
I'm a saver too.
I work hard at keeping things balanced even if it means having a few bad days.
Which for me is double disaster because pain makes my colon shut down.
So for the now, until better understanding of real Pain Management needs gets conveyed to the powers that be, we are going to have trouble with even good doctors whoes hands are bound with rules and regulations.
But we are not without hope.
There are good Doctors who are banding together to work for the betterment of the pain patients rights and accessability to good care which can help them have a good quality of life.
Each Good day that we have is a blessing.
I'm so glad you have gotten some relief.
Hope this cycle of better pain control lasts for a nice while so you can get rested.
Hugs,
kat
PsychLea
04-03-2003, 03:33 AM
Hi guys :wave:
Thanks for all the encouragement. I am getting more sleep now, especially since I dropped the prednisone down.
Haven't had much computer time as I am working my arse off right now.
Did get a wonderful therapuetic massage at PT today. She did everything but sit on top of me! I'm tight everywhere, but have hypermobility in my sternum and rib joints, which explains the cracking and pain I get in my chest.
My PT says it may be time for surgery. Although I am better able to tolerate someone actually touching me now, there has been no improvement in my ROM and I am now starting to have numbness in my left hand at the end of the day. PT is worried about permanent nerve damage. She said she wants me to see only her so she can work consistently on my trouble spots. Said if I wanted to give PT a little more time, she would do whatever she could to get me some relief.
My pain level is down some, now that I am sleeping better.
Epi is in two days. Hope this time it is not so painful.
Mel,
I haven't forgotten you my friend. Praying for you, that the surgery comes quickly.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
Thanks for all the encouragement. I am getting more sleep now, especially since I dropped the prednisone down.
Haven't had much computer time as I am working my arse off right now.
Did get a wonderful therapuetic massage at PT today. She did everything but sit on top of me! I'm tight everywhere, but have hypermobility in my sternum and rib joints, which explains the cracking and pain I get in my chest.
My PT says it may be time for surgery. Although I am better able to tolerate someone actually touching me now, there has been no improvement in my ROM and I am now starting to have numbness in my left hand at the end of the day. PT is worried about permanent nerve damage. She said she wants me to see only her so she can work consistently on my trouble spots. Said if I wanted to give PT a little more time, she would do whatever she could to get me some relief.
My pain level is down some, now that I am sleeping better.
Epi is in two days. Hope this time it is not so painful.
Mel,
I haven't forgotten you my friend. Praying for you, that the surgery comes quickly.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
BWL
04-03-2003, 08:20 AM
Hi Lea,
I'm happy to see that you're getting some relief. Any sleep is good sleep.
It sounds like you lucked out with a dedicated PT person and hopefully you'll get some continued benefit.
Don't work that arse too hard.
Have a great day!
Bruce :)
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
I'm happy to see that you're getting some relief. Any sleep is good sleep.
It sounds like you lucked out with a dedicated PT person and hopefully you'll get some continued benefit.
Don't work that arse too hard.
Have a great day!
Bruce :)
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
winged phantom
04-03-2003, 10:20 AM
Lea,
Whew! That's good news to hear. Hang in there!
wr :wave:
Whew! That's good news to hear. Hang in there!
wr :wave:
BWL
04-03-2003, 05:23 PM
Good luck tomorrow Lea!!
I have a good feeling about this one.
Bruce :wave: :wave:
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
I have a good feeling about this one.
Bruce :wave: :wave:
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
joprud
04-03-2003, 05:46 PM
Hey Lea,
Best of luck with the Epi tomorrow.
I will cross my fingers and toes and anything else I can that it's not a painful one for you this time. With all the good vibes heading your way I have a feeling you'll sail through this one.
Take Care, :wave:
Joanne
Best of luck with the Epi tomorrow.
I will cross my fingers and toes and anything else I can that it's not a painful one for you this time. With all the good vibes heading your way I have a feeling you'll sail through this one.
Take Care, :wave:
Joanne
PsychLea
04-04-2003, 02:23 AM
Bruce and Joann,
Thanks for the well wishes and crossed body parts. Uh, that doesn't sound right, does it? :p
Hoping it will bring some much needed relief.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
Thanks for the well wishes and crossed body parts. Uh, that doesn't sound right, does it? :p
Hoping it will bring some much needed relief.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
PsychLea
04-04-2003, 04:19 PM
Hey guys,
Did NOT have the epi today, due to it not being effective. Had several trigger point injections, including 3 my left arm.
I am still in quite abit of pain. PM was upset that I was taking 2 Ultram 4 times a day http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bang.gif Wants me to drop back to 1 four times a day. She is going to start me on Neurontin. I don't think she understands the amount of pain I am in. :( I guess I present myself too well.
Anyway, this is where I am. If the Neurontin does not work, then I will definitely have surgery and I mean it. I am not going to live my life like this much longer. I haven't even been able to fold my laundry due to the pain in lifting my arms. No one should have to live this way http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/blob_fire.gif
Well, got to go get my little boy from school and head to the pharmacy.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
Did NOT have the epi today, due to it not being effective. Had several trigger point injections, including 3 my left arm.
I am still in quite abit of pain. PM was upset that I was taking 2 Ultram 4 times a day http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bang.gif Wants me to drop back to 1 four times a day. She is going to start me on Neurontin. I don't think she understands the amount of pain I am in. :( I guess I present myself too well.
Anyway, this is where I am. If the Neurontin does not work, then I will definitely have surgery and I mean it. I am not going to live my life like this much longer. I haven't even been able to fold my laundry due to the pain in lifting my arms. No one should have to live this way http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/blob_fire.gif
Well, got to go get my little boy from school and head to the pharmacy.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
BWL
04-04-2003, 04:41 PM
Hi Lea,
Sorry you're having such a rough day. I hope you can find some relief from the trigger point injections.
In all bluntness I would remind your PM what the "M" stands for. You can deal with any dependency issues later. That was my approach and despite it all I turned out okay and can stop anytime I want. ;)
Have fun at the pharmacy :)
Bruce :wave:
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
Sorry you're having such a rough day. I hope you can find some relief from the trigger point injections.
In all bluntness I would remind your PM what the "M" stands for. You can deal with any dependency issues later. That was my approach and despite it all I turned out okay and can stop anytime I want. ;)
Have fun at the pharmacy :)
Bruce :wave:
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
PsychLea
04-04-2003, 10:49 PM
Bruce :wave:
You hit the nail on the head! Owwwww. Stop that :)
I don't have an addictive bone in my body. I don't smoke. I don't drink and I have a whole quart(and I'm not exaggerating) of liquid hydrocodone sitting in my closet from my stomach surgery 2 years ago. If I were going to abuse drugs, I would have ample opportunity.
The PM asked me where I was getting PT, I told her, "I'm going where you sent me http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bang.gif " Then she asked me about the splint on my arm and if I was going to OT? DUH http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bang.gif I am seriously questioning her competence or at least her lack of attention to my case. My family wants me to have the surgery. They can tell I am suffering, even if I am joking. I am just not one to moan around and I just quietly take whatever comes. Can't help it. That's just my personality.
I always push above whatever is going on with me, but this is starting to get ridiculous.
Okay, enough whining from Arkansas y'all.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
[This message has been edited by PsychLea (edited 04-04-2003).]
You hit the nail on the head! Owwwww. Stop that :)
I don't have an addictive bone in my body. I don't smoke. I don't drink and I have a whole quart(and I'm not exaggerating) of liquid hydrocodone sitting in my closet from my stomach surgery 2 years ago. If I were going to abuse drugs, I would have ample opportunity.
The PM asked me where I was getting PT, I told her, "I'm going where you sent me http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bang.gif " Then she asked me about the splint on my arm and if I was going to OT? DUH http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bang.gif I am seriously questioning her competence or at least her lack of attention to my case. My family wants me to have the surgery. They can tell I am suffering, even if I am joking. I am just not one to moan around and I just quietly take whatever comes. Can't help it. That's just my personality.
I always push above whatever is going on with me, but this is starting to get ridiculous.
Okay, enough whining from Arkansas y'all.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
[This message has been edited by PsychLea (edited 04-04-2003).]
joprud
04-04-2003, 11:03 PM
Hi Lea,
I'm sorry you're having such a rough go of it. :(
Sounds to me like PM stands for Pretty Messed-up. Or perhaps, Part Moron or if you like Pathetically Moronic, or (just one more) Pompous Maniac okay I promise last one... Pitifully Maladroit. I would definitely consider finding a new one. {not a new moron :) } I definitely have too much time on my hands! :D
Keep up the good fight!!
Take Care, :wave:
Joanne
[This message has been edited by joprud (edited 04-04-2003).]
[This message has been edited by joprud (edited 04-04-2003).]
[This message has been edited by joprud (edited 04-04-2003).]
I'm sorry you're having such a rough go of it. :(
Sounds to me like PM stands for Pretty Messed-up. Or perhaps, Part Moron or if you like Pathetically Moronic, or (just one more) Pompous Maniac okay I promise last one... Pitifully Maladroit. I would definitely consider finding a new one. {not a new moron :) } I definitely have too much time on my hands! :D
Keep up the good fight!!
Take Care, :wave:
Joanne
[This message has been edited by joprud (edited 04-04-2003).]
[This message has been edited by joprud (edited 04-04-2003).]
[This message has been edited by joprud (edited 04-04-2003).]
PsychLea
04-05-2003, 11:45 PM
Joann,
You made me smile :)
I took the 300mg of Neurontin last night and had no hangover in the morning. Hope it helps. I agree about the PM. She obviously has too many patients and not enough time to tend to them on a personal level. Bruce is right, I need "management" of my pain.
My NS kinda indicated I would come crawling back to him for surgery, and I guess he is right. The only thing stopping me right now, is that I need to save some money up first. Will give the Neurontin 3 weeks, like PM said, but no medication is going to pull that disc off my C7 nerve, so as NS said, I painted myself into a corner.
My husband wants me to have the surgery. He said I could have been recovered and out of pain by now, if I had had surgery when NS first suggested it. Smart Man http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bang.gif
The pain remains 24/7. Don't like it. Not going to take it much longer.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
You made me smile :)
I took the 300mg of Neurontin last night and had no hangover in the morning. Hope it helps. I agree about the PM. She obviously has too many patients and not enough time to tend to them on a personal level. Bruce is right, I need "management" of my pain.
My NS kinda indicated I would come crawling back to him for surgery, and I guess he is right. The only thing stopping me right now, is that I need to save some money up first. Will give the Neurontin 3 weeks, like PM said, but no medication is going to pull that disc off my C7 nerve, so as NS said, I painted myself into a corner.
My husband wants me to have the surgery. He said I could have been recovered and out of pain by now, if I had had surgery when NS first suggested it. Smart Man http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bang.gif
The pain remains 24/7. Don't like it. Not going to take it much longer.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
Catherine with a C
04-06-2003, 12:52 AM
Hi Lea,
I too will add a crossed body part to the list. The way I am feeling right now though, you will have to accept my crossed eyes!!
Don't know if you read my "Grandmotherism" i posted just before surgery or not.........I too was going through all the mental torture(s) of if only i had...
my Nana reminded me; & I quote:
"If if's & but's were candies & nuts,
we'd all have a very, merry Christmas"!
On that note, I will keep you in my thoughts & prayers.
Hang in there. Stay Blessed.
Catherine
I too will add a crossed body part to the list. The way I am feeling right now though, you will have to accept my crossed eyes!!
Don't know if you read my "Grandmotherism" i posted just before surgery or not.........I too was going through all the mental torture(s) of if only i had...
my Nana reminded me; & I quote:
"If if's & but's were candies & nuts,
we'd all have a very, merry Christmas"!
On that note, I will keep you in my thoughts & prayers.
Hang in there. Stay Blessed.
Catherine
PsychLea
04-06-2003, 03:50 AM
Catherine,
My grandmother and mother both used that if and buts phrase :)
I'm not too far away from surgery. Just a few more weeks and will make an appt with NS. Probably I'll shoot for late May or early June, but one way or another, this puppy is going to be fixed!
------------------
God bless,
Lea
My grandmother and mother both used that if and buts phrase :)
I'm not too far away from surgery. Just a few more weeks and will make an appt with NS. Probably I'll shoot for late May or early June, but one way or another, this puppy is going to be fixed!
------------------
God bless,
Lea
joprud
04-06-2003, 04:06 AM
Hi Lea,
I'm glad I could bring you at least a smile...wish it could be so much more :)
Please don't beat yourself up too much about choosing to hold off as long as you can before considering surgery. It (in my view anyway) is a HUGE step :eek: and I personally would also want try all else before taking that step. I have also been dealing with the 24/7 pain for the last 15 months and so far nothing I’ve tried has made any difference. I'm at the point now that, as scared as I am of having surgery,I kinda wish it was an option for me. But none of the docs seem to feel that I'm a candidate for surgery at this point. My impression is that they don’t consider the pain level as a deciding factor. All the other symptoms don't seem to impress them much either. They just keep saying “well no permanent nerve damage so far” ( is that what they’re waiting for? :( )
I hope the Neurontin brings you some relief.
I also hope I've made sense, I'm in a fair bit of pain tonight and I'm exhausted from not sleeping great. :round: http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/tired.gif
Please try to
Keep in touch....and....Keep smilin'
Take Care, :wave:
Joanne
I'm glad I could bring you at least a smile...wish it could be so much more :)
Please don't beat yourself up too much about choosing to hold off as long as you can before considering surgery. It (in my view anyway) is a HUGE step :eek: and I personally would also want try all else before taking that step. I have also been dealing with the 24/7 pain for the last 15 months and so far nothing I’ve tried has made any difference. I'm at the point now that, as scared as I am of having surgery,I kinda wish it was an option for me. But none of the docs seem to feel that I'm a candidate for surgery at this point. My impression is that they don’t consider the pain level as a deciding factor. All the other symptoms don't seem to impress them much either. They just keep saying “well no permanent nerve damage so far” ( is that what they’re waiting for? :( )
I hope the Neurontin brings you some relief.
I also hope I've made sense, I'm in a fair bit of pain tonight and I'm exhausted from not sleeping great. :round: http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/tired.gif
Please try to
Keep in touch....and....Keep smilin'
Take Care, :wave:
Joanne
BWL
04-06-2003, 10:35 AM
Hi Lea,
I'm sorry you're not finding any relief. Not to rush you to the knife, but keep in mind that if you schedule for June, you'll be wearing your collar/brace during that Arkansas summer. Just a thought.
Joanne - I am partial to "Pathetically Moronic." Vrey funny. Keep these new titles in mind the next time you see your PM Lea, but be careful, they might misinterpret the smile on your face as pain relief.
Be well,
Bruce :wave:
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
I'm sorry you're not finding any relief. Not to rush you to the knife, but keep in mind that if you schedule for June, you'll be wearing your collar/brace during that Arkansas summer. Just a thought.
Joanne - I am partial to "Pathetically Moronic." Vrey funny. Keep these new titles in mind the next time you see your PM Lea, but be careful, they might misinterpret the smile on your face as pain relief.
Be well,
Bruce :wave:
------------------
ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)
KeithEugeneW
04-06-2003, 02:53 PM
Lea,
I agree with Mel when she said "It's the quality of your life that you are dealing with." I'm in a similar situation where I've been dealing with the relief of the pain symptoms instead of fixing the problem that causes the pain in the first place. Neurontin does wonders, but I've found that I have to keep going up and up on the dosage because the body gets used to it and tolerates it, and the pain comes crashing back. Recently my migraines came back in full force after a 3 month relief due to the neurontin. I'm now up to 400mg 5 times daily (2000mg daily) plus tizanidine at 4mg before bedtime and 2mg in the morning. I can't remember my name half the time. Who knows what all this stuff does to your liver over time. I've had the epidurals and the PT with no good luck. I have DDD in 2 disks at C5-6 and C6-7, plus spinal cord compression from the bulges of the remanants of the disks. I see the surgeon this Thursday to discuss the surgery date. After reading this board I'm so ready for it that I'd go today if they asked me. I have no reservations about it. I run into people all the time who have had the surgery (ACDF) and they tell me about how they have regained their "Quality of Life". You mentioned that your problem won't go away without surgical intervention, so I'd heartily recommend putting your quality of life ahead of everthing else, including work, and take care of yourself first. Your husband is a very wise man for recommending this as well. From what I've seen and heard, you will be kicking yourself for not having done it sooner! Just think, every day you postpone the surgery and fixing of the problem, you prolong your pain one more day. I wish you the best of luck, I feel very badly for you, I know you have been in very serious pain for a long time. You have some very wonderful people on this board pulling for you and cheering you on, take them along with you in spirit as you go under for surgery. Their collective well wishes for you will help pull you through just fine and they will be with you when you wake up.
I agree with Mel when she said "It's the quality of your life that you are dealing with." I'm in a similar situation where I've been dealing with the relief of the pain symptoms instead of fixing the problem that causes the pain in the first place. Neurontin does wonders, but I've found that I have to keep going up and up on the dosage because the body gets used to it and tolerates it, and the pain comes crashing back. Recently my migraines came back in full force after a 3 month relief due to the neurontin. I'm now up to 400mg 5 times daily (2000mg daily) plus tizanidine at 4mg before bedtime and 2mg in the morning. I can't remember my name half the time. Who knows what all this stuff does to your liver over time. I've had the epidurals and the PT with no good luck. I have DDD in 2 disks at C5-6 and C6-7, plus spinal cord compression from the bulges of the remanants of the disks. I see the surgeon this Thursday to discuss the surgery date. After reading this board I'm so ready for it that I'd go today if they asked me. I have no reservations about it. I run into people all the time who have had the surgery (ACDF) and they tell me about how they have regained their "Quality of Life". You mentioned that your problem won't go away without surgical intervention, so I'd heartily recommend putting your quality of life ahead of everthing else, including work, and take care of yourself first. Your husband is a very wise man for recommending this as well. From what I've seen and heard, you will be kicking yourself for not having done it sooner! Just think, every day you postpone the surgery and fixing of the problem, you prolong your pain one more day. I wish you the best of luck, I feel very badly for you, I know you have been in very serious pain for a long time. You have some very wonderful people on this board pulling for you and cheering you on, take them along with you in spirit as you go under for surgery. Their collective well wishes for you will help pull you through just fine and they will be with you when you wake up.
PsychLea
04-06-2003, 10:39 PM
Keith,Bruce, WR, Debbie, and everyone.
Thanks so much for your support. don't know what I would do without you.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
Thanks so much for your support. don't know what I would do without you.
------------------
God bless,
Lea