Connect
← Return to Cause of pain - left side Head; neck; shoulder & back muscles
Discussion
Cause of pain - left side Head; neck; shoulder & back muscles
Bones, Joints & Muscles | Last Active: Oct 7, 2025 | Replies (8)Comment receiving replies
Follow-up in my continuing search on how to get relief from pain. The latest thought from one of my orthopedic doctors is "it would be a good idea to approach it from a medication management lens. Both in terms of muscle relaxers, but also potentially a medication that we use for chronic pain such as Cymbalta or Elavil. Could also try Lyrica."
Does anyone have any knowledge on the viability (any pros and cons) of using any of these drugs to help in relief of pain on left side, upper body - head pain in rear and top; still neck; muscle cramping of shoulder and upper back??
Replies to "Follow-up in my continuing search on how to get relief from pain. The latest thought from..."
Connect
@cpeeler I have used all of these meds, some for decades. Gabapentin and lyrica made me dizzy, but for the brief time I took them they offered some relief. Elavil caused me to sleep 12 hours a day, I’d suggest starting with a low dose. I had best long term relief with cymbalta. I took 120 mg which is higher than the dose for depression. After taking for 20+ years, my dentist informed me of serious gum disease likely due to the dry mouth effects. To be clear, all these meds cause dry mouth which leads to gum disease and cavities. Let your dentist know. Now I see my dentist 4 x year and use biotine, tho there are a myriad of OTC products to help with dry mouth