So much pain

[Ayomide1970]

I am very happy to have found this site! I am in so much pain and many diagnoses along with medications, that I have no idea as to how to begin compartmentalizing and dealing with what's going on with me. Rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, degenerative disc disease, desiccated discs in three lumbar spine levels, carpal tunnel syndrome, enhanced epidural fibrosis, progressing narrowed facet joints in two lumbar spine levels, sciatica, and now im sure depression. What to do?!?!?!?!

[RibvanRey]

Hello Ayomide. You have made a good step in discovering HU. Welcome. Whilst we cannot solve your horrible full plate I am sure that there are plenty of folk here that will help support you and pass on tips in coping with your pain. Depression is not uncommon in people living in chronic pain and with a diagnosed list such as you describe I am sure your pain must be unremitting. As is the case of many of the folk here.

Distraction and meditation are two of the most commonly used techniques. Discovering ways to break up the rhythms of life and those of the pain signals. Have you tried Tens to disrupt the pain signals? Have you been seen at a pain clinic? How do you fill your days. Regards Rib

[Ayomide1970 in reply to RibvanRey]

I have had two microdiscetomies this year- one in April and revision surgery in June. I have had three unsuccessful epidural injections before surgery, aqua therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and an extensive cocktail of pain medications- mostly like the ones mentioned on this site. I use my Tens unit several times each week, epsom salt baths, heating pads, stretching, and rest. I temporarily work from home (by medical exception) and by the time my work day is over I am completely wiped out. I have gotten very frustrated. I see a pain management specialist, endocrinologist, primary care doctor, rheumatologist, and was under neurosurgical care until being switched back to pain management about a week ago. The pain management doctor scheduled me for another epidural injection with the belief that it will work now that my herniated discs were shaved off. Now I have disc bulges that are not resting on my sciatic nerve. I can barely walk without pain, let alone do much else. I spend my time trying to make it physically, emotionally, and mentally from minute to minute. I have a husband and three children who make life worth living. We are now in financial ruin. This has cost so much, not just financially. I need serious therapy!

[chloe40]

Hi Ayomide, Welcome to Pain Concern.You really do have a lot to contend with and I can't begin to understand just how you are feeling but I have a pretty good idea. I can only relate to the spine and disc /lumber pain and I know how awful that is. I'm not surprised you feel depressed ! I was given amongst other medications Amitriptyline, which really helped with 'nerve endings' pain and certainly lifted the depression I was experiencing.

There are many here who have similar health/pain problems and we all do our bit to lift and help out our fellow sufferers, so whilst I can't advise you, other than a please discuss your worries with your GP, you can always come back here for support.

Kind regards

Amberrose

[Ayomide1970]

I have had two microdiscetomies this year- one in April and revision surgery in June. I have had three unsuccessful epidural injections before surgery, aqua therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and an extensive cocktail of pain medications- mostly like the ones mentioned on this site. I use my Tens unit several times each week, epsom salt baths, heating pads, stretching, and rest. I temporarily work from home (by medical exception) and by the time my work day is over I am completely wiped out. I have gotten very frustrated. I see a pain management specialist, endocrinologist, primary care doctor, rheumatologist, and was under neurosurgical care until being switched back to pain management about a week ago. The pain management doctor scheduled me for another epidural injection with the belief that it will work now that my herniated discs were shaved off. Now I have disc bulges that are not resting on my sciatic nerve. I can barely walk without pain, let alone do much else. I spend my time trying to make it physically, emotionally, and mentally from minute to minute. I have a husband and three children who make life worth living. We are now in financial ruin. This has cost so much, not just financially. I need serious therapy!

[Curlygirl54]

Welcome Ayomide1970, sorry that you need to be here but I think you will find this site very supportive.

You are definitely dealing with a huge amount and financial stresses on top of the medical are just the cherry on top of the not very tasty cake eh

[mitziblue]

Well Darling who wouldn't be depressed. I have fibro. OA, RLS, IBS, and a few more. If you haven't tried a pain clinic please do. With all you are going through it may be your best bet at getting control on your pain, thus your depression should lighten also. Hope this helps as I feel for you!!! xxx Mitzi