Lori,
Finally able to get to the computer.I don't know if you have tried to the epidural injections or not, but they might be worth a shot. Personally, they didn't work for me at all.
Right now, I am using several different meds to help with the pain. I take Ultram,hydrocodone, Soma,Vistaril, and sometimes Mepergan depending on the pain level. I never take anything stronger than Ultram during the day so I can function at work. I also found that the Lidoderm patches work sometimes for me. In the past, I have had trigger point injections which really brought some relief. I have alot of muscle spasms.
Thursday, I am seeing Dr. Ault for PM. I am going to get trigger point injections, then I am going to talk with him about what my options are, as this has been going on for 10 mos and therefor classifies as "chronic pain."
There are many options out there such as the TENS units,steroids, anti-inflammatory meds,transdermal meds(pain patches),nerve blocks, and PT.
I have had some level of continuous pain since I was 9 y/o when I was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis. I apparently didn't suffer any longlasting joint damage, and don't have arthritis today, but I have always had some type of joint or back pain droning on in the background. However, this is the first time that the pain level was continuously high enough to be a "real pain" on a daily basis
So I really share your frustrations. I will let you know what I learn on Thursday.
I would strongly encourage you to talk with your NS about getting a pain management referral. PM doesn't always have to include narcotics and you may find you an allie in helping you manage your pain.
Good luck my friend, you have definitely been through the wringer!
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God bless,
Lea
C4-5 noncompressive disc displacement
C5-6 compressive disc displacement
C6-7 broad based disc protrusion encroaching on the anterioposterior aspect of the spinal canal.
DDD
ACDF C6-7 5/13/03 with titanium plate,4 screws, and no collar postop.
New MRI 8/25/03
C5-6 posterior annular bulge, now with spurring,canal stenosis, and foraminal stenosis
??? for LEA 
Linear Mode
