Neck pain/headache - Pain Management Message Board

tiggertoo2174 · 06-23-2008, 09:13 AM

I started back to PT last week for my neck/shoulder problems. My most recent appt was Friday afternoon. Saturday afternoon I started getting a lot of pain in my neck and a severe headache. My regular meds (1/2 tab oxycodone 5mg 4xday, flexeril 3xday) don't touch it and the only OTC med I can take is Tylenol - allergic to the NSAIDS. About the only things that seem to help a bit are biofreeze and some heat. I'm at work and can't use heat (silly ban on anything electric that gets hot).

I know I need to talk to the PT about this when I go tomorrow, but any suggestions in the meantime?

Tigg.

forginon · 06-23-2008, 09:54 AM

Yes.

Try caffeine. About the equivalent of two cups of coffee. I have found caffeine to be a wonder drug for really bad headaches. You just don't want to use this too often, as it will begin to cause rebound headaches.

steve

tiggertoo2174 · 06-23-2008, 10:31 AM

Thanks Steve, I'd forgotten about that. I'll get some diet MD. The coffee around here could be used to clean engines.

Tigg.

tandycipps · 06-23-2008, 11:30 AM

Hi,
I have severe neck problems and so many headaches! I wake up with them or I will just get one during the day. I take lortab10/500 for the neck pain and fiornal for the headaches. Sometimes that doesn't even work and I'll get an ice pack and put on the back of my head and neck and that will work wonders for me. I sure hope you find something to help, headaches are a terrible thing to have especially when your trying to work.

Gramps6 · 06-23-2008, 11:56 AM

Dear Tiggertoo:
I'm not familiar w/ your history but I sure hope your dr has imaged your neck thoroughly before referring you to PT. This unfortunately isn't always the case & people end up worsening their condition. If you can't use electric heating devices, there are creams like capsaican that will provide temporary relief. Also thermacare patches help may people. I find the pressure of hot water directly on my neck in the shower helps. Also, fish oils will help if there's an inflammation problem. Good luck. Please tell your therapist about new pains. Take care,
Gramps6