I didn't have a lot of problems with my right leg before my operation. My chiropractor used to stretch my right leg. That helped a lot. I had my operation about 1 1/2 years ago. It's only recently that I have been experiencing problems with my right leg. Pulling, tiredness, etc.
I finally went to my family doctor last week and whined and sniffled about pain. There have been times that I would take two Tylenol every four hours. Then the pain would disappear, and I could work all night if I wanted to. Then it would be back the next day.

Before my operation I was taking two Tramadol and 2 Gabapentin four times a day. I was determined to get off the opioids. The doctors recommended Advil. They didn't warn me about taking it longer than 3 days at a time. My blood pressure went sky high. One doctor determined that I had a minor heart attack. The cardiologist said he doesn't consider it a heart attack until there is damage. Fortunately, there was none.

My family doctor ordered a new pain killer that is one step up from Tylenol with Tramadol in it. i was reluctant to take it. I finally did. I only took one pill even though the directions say take one or two. I am pleased to say, it's working! And I don't seem to need to take it every day. It's early days.

You are lucky that your doctor warned you that it takes time for the nerves to settle down. I wish someone had warned me and gave me better advice on pain control.

Everyone is different. My acupuncturist didn't have any of the lingering pain after her operation. She and my chiropractor trade monthly treatments!

Pain makes you desperate. My family doctor did not recommend PT for me after the operation. You may be doing what i did--trying to hard to get back to normal. Observe your body to see what works. Walking is one of the best exercises. If you don't have a dog. Get one. I have a "rescue." They are the best! They seem to know that you have saved them. You can take a mutt or if you want a specific breed, there are rescue organizations that specializes in certain breeds. I wanted a Bichon Frise because my last rescue was one. I ended up with a Bichon Frise/Poodle cross and a Shih Tzu. They came together. If I wanted one, I had to take the other. I took both. It was a great decision. I found them on Kijiji of all places! Good luck.