I'm new, and have a "?" - Fibromyalgia Message Board

Charlyssa · 02-21-2004, 11:38 AM

Hi -

I'm new to this board, and I haven't yet seen anyone mention this - has anyone ever been referred to a Physiatrist for pain? My PCP just referred me, and being that I have multiple areas of pain, I fear this may be something like physical therapy. Been there, done that a few times and it really does nothing to help long-term. You only feel a bit better for the short time you're there. I do have other afflictions besides fibromyalgia - arthritis, degenerative disk disease, and scoliosis - but my PCP is mainly sending me for the fm. So, if anyone has been to a physiatrist, what was your experience?
Thanx for any input.

Charlyssa

gerdur69 · 02-21-2004, 11:47 PM

didn't do me any good, I ended up having chronic pain in places where I had none before

Charlyssa · 02-22-2004, 11:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gerdur69

didn't do me any good, I ended up having chronic pain in places where I had none before

Hi gerdur69 -

Oh great!! Just what I need!!

This is sorta was I was afraid of. It seems some of these Drs./specialists feel that you have to feel worse before you can feel better, such as, making you do certain contortions and exercises that just make everything worse...and then tell you it's good for you.

Well, fortunately I only HAVE to go at least once. Can I ask you what they had you do? I am worried about this, because I have enough pain!
Thanx!!

Charlyssa

Glenda/Bill · 02-26-2004, 01:03 PM

Are you saying you are to see a physical therapist or a psychiartrist? Because my rheumy just sent me to a psychiartrist because of the pain. He says fibro is caused from stress and depression. So, I went for an evaluation yesterday. He asked 500 questions, but was vey nice and I felt very comfortable. Most Dr.s seem to be in such a hurry they don't want to fool with me and the fact I have no insurance makes me think they really don't care to treat me. Oh, well........ Let me know what happens.

Charlyssa · 02-26-2004, 07:15 PM

Hi G/B -

Actually, neither. This person my MD wants me to see is a Physiatrist. She said it was supposed to help me with pain. I ASSUME a physiatrist is similar to a physical therapist, but not sure. That's why I wondered if anyone has been to one so they could share their experience with me. I've had PT before, and it didn't help except for the short time I was there, so I quit going.
(I'm on the other thread, too, re: S.S. info & my experiences.)

So are you going to continue with therapy? I see a therapist, but I honestly don't see how they can help with pain. In fact...and this is just my opinion...but to send you to therapy because you have pain seems to indicate they think it's all in your head! And we all know that's NOT TRUE.
I see a therapist for anxiety, depression & some other issues. My MD referred me for those reasons...but to the physiatrist, for pain.

If you don't have insurance, and are a bit strapped financially, the therapist hopefully could work with you in this regard. Or, thru the Mental Health Dept. near wherever you live, they work with people on a sliding scale. No one should have to go broke getting care they need. Good luck, best wishes and keep me "posted".

Charlyssa