Hey guys!
I'm happy to say that I have done some significant research into the pain medication I was taking for my lower back pain for the last 4 years. I won't give details of where I got all of my data but I found the Royal College of Anaesthetists most helpful.
Above a certain limit, the research shows morphine drugs like my Oxcontin can do more harm. The truth is, what took me down this path is my pain was getting worse and we had increased my dose. I had clearly developed hyperalgesia as there was now pain in my arms!
At this point, my DR took full control for a while and he stopped the instant release and just kept my instant Tramadol with the Oxycontin that have always helped. My DR had always let me take a part in my treatment as he said 'it had always been reasonable'. I needed to know more now and that was fine.
After my research, I then took some control again and started to REDUCE the Oxycontin dose and my pain was more manageable again and the hyperalgesia went away! Today, my pain is so much better. I'm combining extended release Tramadol and Oxycontin. Getting the SSRI effect for neuropathic pain from the tramadol but over a longer time.
My dose is not conventional but I'm managing more on my old tramadols then large doses of Oxycontin. I think its vital we take a role in our care and give out as many suggestions as we can think of, if they come from science.
Last, I have the pain clinic in December and I feel stronger going to them 'less debilitated' because that just makes me feel out of control and too vulnerable.
With my pain, Its been 4 years and this has been my first breakthrough because I was willing to say that I messed up, go away, think and come up with another idea and just try it. Knowing my GP for over 15 years has probably helped.
Positive vibes!
Jake