Hi everyone,
I'm a first time poster and am hoping that some of you may be able to help shed light on a mysterious neuropathic pain which I've suffered for over a decade now. I have seen various specialists - GPs, orthopedic surgeons and a rheumatologist - none of whom has been able to explain or name my pain (I have had physical examinations, x-rays and blood work done). However, four years ago the rheumatologist prescribed amitriptyline which has given me back my hands. I currently take 125mg at night, ad have taken 150mg at times over the years.The rheumatologist was unable to explain the pain beyond suggesting that my brain was misinterpreting/manufacturing pain signals when it shouldn't.
I first noticed the pain in 2006 when my fingers became stiff playing video games. In time I noticed it while typing (I do desk and computer based work, so type every day), reading (holding books) and holding remote controls (e.g. TV). While the amitriptyline makes the pain manageable - for which I am infinitely grateful - I would love to be drug-free at some point if possible, or to use a drug designed for such pain rather than for depression. Even better would be to locate the cause of the pain and address it - I remain unable to type or hold a book for more than a few minutes at a time.
Have any of you experienced such pain, and/or do you have any thoughts on how I might better understand or address it?
Thanks so much!