Don't Want To Be a Complainer
As i was growing up, I heard my mom complain daily about pain and discomfort in various parts of her body. As a result, decided when I was younger that I would never be a complainer! I suppose I formed a judgment that my mom had a low threshold for pain and was just a complainer. I felt like people did not want to hear that, and it drove them away. I am now convinced that I was very wrong. For about the past 20 years of my life, I have had lower back pain which has become progressively worse over time. Over the more recent few years, I have chronic neck, shoulder, and upper arm pain which is severe at times and bad other times. MRI shows two separate syrnix lesions (one in cervical and one in thorasic area). Suspect cause for those is trauma due to a horse fall incident several years ago. No surgery is indicated due to risks and uncertain benefits. Also, degenerative disease mostly in the neck, but some in the lumbar area. Most recently, had RF ablation procedures done on the lower back. Worked good for about a month, but pain is back (mostly with standing and walking). Pain in neck and shoulders is terrilbe at times. Have tried Tramadol (which local docs DO NOT want me to take), and it does not really work for me anyway. Cannot take NSAID meds due to kidney issues. Hydrocodone works, but getting it is nearly impossible any more. [If you wondered, I have no history of drug abuse, addiction, or alcholism] I am SO AFRAID of becoming a chrinic complainer like I grew up with. In fact, I feel that the few friends I do talk to about it (probably 2 at most) have formed judgments and do not want to hear it. I even feel like the docs think I am a complainer -- perhaps to get meds -- which is simply and firmly not true. What do people do? Live with it and hurt? I am not retired yet -- have a couple or three more years -- but it is so hard to keep up this pace. Already frustrated and darkenss widening here. Thoughts?
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@tbaxter33
I'm a Volunteer Mentor with Mayo Connect and not a medical professional. I'm very concerned about the level of pain your body and psyche are in currently. Please don't give up even though you may think you should. Are you seeing a physician or counselor right now? If not, I recommend that you contact your regular physician and get an immediate appointment. If you are in great pain please call a friend to take you to the hospital or call 911. I caught your sense of desperation perhaps and I want to be sure you are OK.
Gailb
Volunteer Mentor
We love you, and do want to help. Try to let us know how we may do so. In which region of the country do you live?
I second Water aerobatics EZ on the body as well. Possibly a local hotel weekend stay with a nice pool Get a good rate online if you can afford that . Do not give up ! MY son broke his back 20 yrs ago No Western hospital ( one of the best ) operated.. he is doing quite well at age 58. Warm Water soaks help him lots / He does physical work most days . .
@tbaxter33 I just saw your post your not a complainer When anyone has back issues it's a problem we have to learn to live with there are lots of things you can try see if any fit your situation .I've had fibromyalgia for 30 yrs ,have a ,L2 fracture loads of o.a.in spine neck down but have found exercise the best for it ,yes it hurts to get started but the more you do it the stronger your muscles get ,water aerobics are the best,they are easier on you.I have bone spurs around hips so walking is tough I've tried with pain but mustered through.Tramadol does help me except when a fibro flare starts ,Heating pad helps heal,ice is good for inflammation in joints.Some people get relieve from Volteran cream it's for arthritis I think. My chiropractor uses a TENS unit before he works On my back .Don't give up ,this is a good group you came to ,we share information some will help ,some won't depends on your own body.Find another Dr.if your isn't helping and complain all you want here we are all in the same ⛵ Take care hope you find relief. Keep your chin up.
I also swear by Biofreeze rollon. It’s OTC, about $8 and lasts a long time. @marylou704
for whats its worth TENS Never did a thing for my pain but who knows
@friedamay never heard of walking sticks are they like a cane?
@tkbaxter I feel your pain in your loss please don't think this was your fault when the devil gets a hold of us that person has to acknowledge its from him not God please talk to someone who can help you with this pain .
I actually like my TENS. It is similar to a technique we used in Physical Therapy. @marylou705
@dianrib sorry it didn't help everyone is different water aerobics help but it's hard to find a warm water pool out here.