If the gabapentin is helping you, and you’re not experiencing side effects, is that a problem?

Many of the medications used for this type of pain have potentially problematic side effects because they’re targeting something that’s systemic—were messing with nerve signals and neurotransmitters that might impact more than just the pain we feel, so it’s a known risk. It doesn’t necessarily mean the medication is dangerous.

Everyone responds differently and has a different tolerance for risk of effects. I personally choose not to try these types of medications, but that is because I have sensitivity to medications and other underlying conditions I often experience side effects and if I do, it can make other things worse. I’m not worried my life would be in danger or anything, but I’m just uncomfortable with the risk and possible stress if it doesn’t work out.

I’m glad you seeked out a psychologist; I’ve gotten a lot of support from a health psychologist or other therapist with experience in chronic pain. Did you see a health psychologist? Often they can help not just with coping but help you learn strategies and practices to help calm your nervous system, which can also help with your pain.

There are other treatments like physical therapy, graded motor imagery (GMI), topicals. I got the most leverage out of working with a health psychologist and PT with a pain neuroscience approach and GMI. I improved.

I felt really empowered when I learned more about a pain neuroscience approach to treating pain—it’s based on the fact that our brains and nerves have neuroplasticity, meaning we can influence and change how our brains perceive and send pain signals. It’s kind of hard to explain, but I wrote about it yesterday here: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/comment/1149510/

I haven’t personally used the Curable app, but a Mayo PT recommended it to me, and it’s more accessible than finding a chronic pain PT. She also recommended a book called “Unlearn Your Pain.” I have some qualms with these resources but they explain chronic pain in a way that’s accessible.

That’s what gives me hope, that there are ways that are evidence-based that we can influence how we feel pain, even if it doesn’t cure the original issue. But if it gets me back to doing things I enjoy doing, I’ll take that.

But what you’re feeling is real…the panic, worry about the medications, maybe the grief. It’s important to feel what you feel and lean on the people and things that uplift you. And when you’re ready to sort through your options again and move forward, you will.