Finally got my referral to Rheumatology!
Posted , 4 users are following.
Hi, ive had sciatica on and off for ten years but two years ago my pain intensified and i was laid up unable to move about without excruciating debilitating pain for 11 weeks.
My feeling is that there is a lack of information passed from GPs to patients illustrated by the fact i was not made aware in all this time, that an MRI scan could establish precisely what was wrong, sciatica being a symptom rather than a diagnosis, and that if i had one it could help the specialist decide what type of treatment would be best for me.
So having suffered in silence for nearly two months, barely able to cope, i sought chiropractic treatment which staved off the worst of it for about 8 months, after this it was back with a vengeance.
I had been and still am, dependent on dihydrocodeine, turmeric and black pepper supplement, essential oils such as lavender & ginger, and deep freeze muscle relief sprays and gels, but was still in pain.
A couple of weeks ago i saw my GP who advised that MRIs and indeed epidurals for immediate pain relief are no longer dealt with by "Primary Care" so i would have to be referred to Rheumatology, which he then did.
Of course my fear is that the rules governing who does and doesnt obtain an MRI or an epidural may be stricter under Rheumatoid than they would be under the GP direct as you have to "meet the creteria" but im hopeful but am going to put forward a strong case to them as i walk with a walking cane, im in absymal levels of pain, its affecting my "quality of life" so ive no idea whether ill be able to get an MRI or an epidural under their guises.
I had an appt through for 5th Novembet so only 6 more weeks of agony, hopefully!
I just wanted to share to point out that you now have to be referred to Rheumatology, rather than the GP handling it and also share some of the health remedies i regularly use, they are not affordable on my low budget and my credit card is often "maxed out" but i wouldnt be without them.
So has anyone any experience of sciatica and encountered similar situations?
0 likes, 2 replies
mimm14 fiona51388
Posted
Hi
I too have had my life changed by sciatica
I have had it for 3 years, lack of sleep, can't sleep that much, can't walk now,
I have had mri and all sorts of tests I am now waiting to see pain specialist for injection.. I too take diyhydrocoideine, and amytriptyline to which they don't really help much, the only thing that help abit was a course of steroid tablets but they won't let u stay on them,
I feel for you, I too want my life back as the quality is now I'm house bound,
I hope you are sorted very soon and get ur life back, your totally right I think sciatica I's not un derstood and realized how life changing it is, and how painful it is,
Sending u best wishes xx
BARBRN fiona51388
Posted
I found your comment re: who can order MRI interesting. Both mine were ordered by my GP. I have sciatica along with spinal stenosis in other parts of my back. I have found specific exercises and deep massage to be most effective for the sciatica. I found no analgesic to touch the pain. Different modalities are needed for each type pain, but the floor exercises and deep massage work best for sciatic pain (getting on and off the floor can pose a challenge) 😊 Try these along with heat...sometimes the most simplistic things are the best, Surprised no one has referred you to a physical therapist. A good one can be a miracle worker. Good Luck!!!