When to Take Meds? - Pain Management Message Board

mikesgirl · 05-18-2007, 03:28 PM

Hi all,

I have a chronic back issue (SI) that flares up sometimes. I can be fine for a while, sometimes even a couple of weeks, then I can flare up for a week or more.

The problem is that I was starting to abuse my meds. I was taking hydro (10mg only) or tramadol 50-100mg once a day, every day. I started to rely on them for emotional support, and to help me forget about things that are bothering me.

2 weeks ago today I decided to try to basically quit them except when NEEDED for PAIN. In that amount of time, of course I got a flare-and took one hydro on Monday. Today I really hurt too, and just don't know what to do. The part of me that hurts wants them for the pain but I don't want to get back into a bad habit so soon. I am also going through a stressful time with some other issues and find myself wanting them just for that.

I really do hurt today though.

I am lucky that I don't need them daily all the time. Can I get to a point where I really am taking them just when I need to? It feels like such a struggle right now.

Thanks all....K

curiousforever · 05-18-2007, 03:40 PM

When you find yourself reaching for them - and you're not sure if it's pain or stress - can you take a walk, or do stretches or get a thermacare out and wait at least 45 minutes to see if that helps first?

The pills shouldn't be the first thing you reach for. I've been on them for over a year at this point - and it's taken quite awhile for me to do it 'right' - as in not reaching for them first thing. I use lidoderm patches, thermacare, hot bath/shower, stretches, etc.

Actually when I get stressed or mad - I end up cleaning.... strange I know. But it helps stress and pain to move and it takes your mind off of it. (at least for me.)

mikesgirl · 05-18-2007, 04:27 PM

You make good points.

I tried the lidoderm, I wish they had worked! Usually the only thing that really helps me hurt less is rest/time. I get flared up doing certain things (overdoing work, too much walking) and then nothing helps but WAITING. The narcotics just make me forget about it for a while. I do ok when I am keeping busy, but when I try to relax or sleep, that's when it gets to me.

I take NSAID's with little effect, and I have had steriod injections twice. No help.

Heat doesn't help, and stretching sometimes makes it worse. I think part of my stress and frustration is the fact that nothing REALLY helps.

Eventually I hope to figure it out....