I sent you a PM but am also posting this here because I think it may also help others.

I'm so sorry to hear about your pain. I can definitely relate. The first thing you need to do is go to http://www.arachnoiditishope.com and read all you can. Print the surveys, lab tests, medical protocol recommendations, and anything else you think might help the doctor to help you. First and foremost the inflammation needs to be addressed. Once that happens you will get some pain relief and you can start to manage your pain from there. Unfortunately, arachnoiditis is one of the possible risks that comes with any kind of spine surgery. Once inflammation takes hold and is not addressed things start to spiral from there. Don't get me wrong, I completely understand how you feel about the doctors because I've had 18 years of what you have described including doctors that have been rude, thought I was a drug seeker, etc. I now understand that, just like the Tarlov cysts that I have/had (I had surgery), arachnoiditis is an "incidental finding" and will not always be noted on an MRI and that most doctors have little to no knowledge about it. Those that do should definitely take heed and recommend the rheumatologist. I have arachnoiditis, most likely adhesive, but my other doctors and I believe I had it long before the surgery. The inflammation and pain has gotten worse since surgery. I am now waiting for my labs (recommended by Dr. Tennant from http://www.arachnoiditishope.com) to come back. Then I can take my MRIs, labs, and surveys to a rheumatologist. Also, don't hesitate to email questions to Dr. Tennant and his team. They are very supportive and helpful. You will also need a pain management provider that is willing to take the time to look into your condition and is willing to work with you. When you go in for you initial appt. present them with your information right away and ask them if they are willing to learn a little bit more about your condition and work with you. If not, then you need to move on to the next doctor. I found one of the most knowledgeable doctors in interventional pain management. Look for one with expertise in anesthesiology. You are also welcome to read some of my other posts for more into. Tarlov cysts and arachnoiditis go hand in hand and have a lot of similar traits and symptoms. I wish you the best of luck and hope you find some relief! Take care!