I understand your fear of using Gabapentin.
However, my experience deems your fears to be unnecessary.
I take Gabapentin for a different condition and have had significant relief. You start on a small dose and it works by stealth as you slowly increase it. Another tip about increasing the efficacy of Gabapentin is to combine this with paracetamol. According to my neurologist there's a good synergy between the two agents. It seems to improve the effect in my case.
Best of luck and all good wishes for your recovery!