How do I cope with the excrutiating pain
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Diagnosed over a year ago with Cervical Spondylosis (or Degenerative Disc Disease as my doctor calls it). I have little or no life now. I have had every medication they can think of. Only thing that worked was morphine with a concoction of other meds i.e. diazepam, paracetemol, anti-sickness tabs etc, Only problem is morphine has to be increased on a regular basis. Now on 60mg tabs twice daily with oramorph 3-4 times daily. I get very little relief from pain which rules my life. I am at my wits end. Doc now want me to try tablet called Duloxetine 60mg whcih is used for neuro pain in diabetics but I have read it has terrible side effects. I am afraid to try it. Has anyone else been prescribed this and did it help the pain. I am also seeing private doc but so far it is not helping. I am often screaming with the pain in my neck and even when it calms down a bit I am left with severe pain in both arms, shoulders and hands. Depression sets in often as I am unable to do any of the things I used to. I cannot lift anything heavy (even my little grandson) . Any form of housework is a no no and my social life is almost nil. I had my driving licence revoked from DVLA because I am on so much morphine (could hardy drive anyway because of the pain). Although I am 67 up until a year ago I had a very active social life with only severe headaches. Now my pain rules my life. Good to find this site and let off a bit of steam as not many people understand this type of pain (Ihave had two children and childbirth was nothing compared to this kind of pain).Would be good to talk to others and find out if anything helps their pain. Been to pain clinic and physio neither of whom could help me. I feel I have been abondoned by NHS. My doctor is sypmathetic but is struggling to help me. Tried ice, heat, baths lidocaine patches (even an alcholic drink on occasion) but nothing helps. Anyone out there help me please?
3 likes, 112 replies
daniel19546 Arran103
Posted
I am so sorry you must endure all of this pain and have to take the meds you do just to experience some relief. I also have Degenerative Disc Disease. My problem is in my lower back and the pain is terrible. When you attempt to tell someone just how bad the pain is they will never know if they have not had something like this. I have been taking Norco for the last ten years and it's the only medication that takes the edge off. I was on my way to be a professional golfer at one point in my life however because of my back problems that went out the window.I live in San Diego California and was very involved in all kinds of sports other than golf and cant do any of the outdoor things I once enjoyed. In my current profession I must sit and be on the computer most of the day and believe me it is not easy. I had the fauct injections last year and the doctor hit one of the nerves and now I also experience a lot of pain in my left leg. I am now seeing another pain physician who wants me to allow him to inject again into my back and I just have worries that this will also cause problems. My surgeon want to go in a chip away at a bone that may relieve pressure on my nerve but wont do anything regarding the disc. It appears I am digging a hole that I just wont get out of because of what these physicians want me to do. I'm at a loss. I just wanted to let you know that I really feel for you. I hope one day you will be pain free and back on track! Good Luck and be careful what procedures you allow.