I have read that Prozac is good for helping with avoiding withdrawal because it has a longer half life. I don't know if that is what is meant as a "bridge." And that may be true of Cymbalta. Does your doctor have a preference?

Personally I would prioritize minimizing withdrawal (having seen the effects in a family member) vs pain relief. Then dealing with pain after fully off. SSRI"s are supposed to help with pain receptors but not sure if that is true of Prozac (or Cymbalta) so maybe that is something to ask.

Gabapentin, in our experience, is good for neurological pain (if tolerated) and helps with anxiety.

Your doctor sounds like a good one !