Chronic Pain

[Annette Bailey]

I am in alot of pain. A few years back, I was injured and had to have both cervical and lumbar fusions.

In the last several months, I've been experiencing alot of pain in neck, low back, but now especially in the thorasic area. I went to a different orthopaedic surgeon this time. One of the best in Atlanta.

I now have DDD, or osteoarthritis in my entire spine, curvature of the spine in the thorasic area. Most of my pain is in my neck and thorasic area. I'm also having tingling and numbness in left arm and hand. And also weakness and tingling, numbness in legs and right foot. At times, I lose control of my left leg and will almost fall. It will completely give away with me.

I am going for an MRI and a nerve test next. The Dr says I may have other ruptured discs above or below my prior fusions. All I know is this pain is debilitating. I have been advised to get on disability for I will never be able to work again. The Dr did put me on Celebrex for the DDD and pain pills as well. The Celebrex does help with the arthritic pain.

I would strongly advise anyone who seems to be getting nowhere with your Dr to find a better Dr. It totally makes a difference. I have one of the best now who really listens and also has a great bed-side manner. That also means alot. He is very thorough with the visit and takes his time with each patient. Most Dr's are in and out and leave you feeling you are just another number. So, please seek another Dr, one who comes highly recommended and who has had years of schooling. This too makes a big difference.

I don't know what my outcome will be yet, but I'm at peace just knowing I am now getting the best treatment by one of the best Dr's.

Sincerely, Annette

[mz kitty]

hi sweetie , i hope this reaches you well . i am so glad to hear that you are doing better with the doctor you have now as opposed to the prior one . a good doc does make a huge diffrence in the life of us ppl in need of them . i also have ddd . several crushed and bulging discs in my back and neck . arthitis (osteo) throughout my spine , shoulders , knees , hips .. you know the drill . nerve damage throughout my legs , however neurontin has given me a lot of help in my legs .fibromyalgia as well . i turn 29 next month . i just got approved for disablity , but i have to wait two yrs to get medicade and that is the whole reason i applied . for the doctor help , ya know . my doctor told me repeatedly i had to apply for disablity . i cannot work , i cannot even clean my house up most days . it is not a life style anyone wants . sadly there isnt alot we can do about it . apply for disablity if you can , the sooner the better , because it takes forever . but it is worth it . i do not feel as low as i have for so many yrs not bringing anything to the table . anyways , good luck . i hope you dont mind me writing like this =)