@colorbug
Hello and welcome to the group!
I am so sorry for what you have been going through!
I wish I had some good advice, but I am going through some of the same things you are.
I suffered from back pain for many, many years.
I took shots, but they never worked until I found a doctor when I moved to Florida.
I got some relief for about 4 years and then it stopped.
By then, I had enough and decided to check with a neurosurgeon.
I am retired (currently 66 years old) and I had no quality of life, which is difficult to have when you are in 24/7/265 pain.
I found a FANTASTIC neurosurgeon.
My cervical and lumbar spine was a MESS!!!
I had 2 separate surgeries and after each, the pain in those areas were gone!
My surgeon picked the areas which were the worst and corrected them.
Sadly, about 1 1/2 yrs. after surgery, I noticed I could not raise my toes when my feet were flat on the floor and my ankles could not move from side to side. In addition, I noticed that one of the toes on my right foot was totally numb and did not move at all!
Apparently, I waited too long to have the surgery and developed lots of nerve damage.
Currently, I am having trouble walking.
My legs get tired and just stop working.
In addition, I have pain and pins and needles all over my body.
I went to a neurologist who SEEMED spot on!
He prescribed a medication (can't remember the name), but it could increase my anxiety and depression (which is under control with my current meds).
I called to talk with him but he NEVER returned my call.
I've been on Gabapentin before, but it messed with my memory and I didn't want to go on it again.
I went to see my neurosurgeon and got another prescription but it made me dizzy.
Finally, I got a response from a doctor who was covering for the neurologist who wanted me to up my anxiety meds.
It took me over 2 years to get it down to where it is today.
Next, I started with PT as the neurologist suggested.
They hurt me so much, but when I said something they told me they really couldn't do any less.
Now, I am suffering with pain, again.
Lastly, the neurologist wanted some MRIs.
The insurance company turned me down.
When I called to see if he would do anything, I was told he doesn't talk to the insurance companies and he'll see me at the next check up (which is 6 months away).
Called my neurosurgeon (again) and they ordered 3 MRIs.
I got turned down, but they called the insurance company and fought for it.
We won!!
I just had the 3 MRIs.
I go next month to see what is going on.
Don't give up and keep on searching.
Sometimes you have to kiss a few frogs before you find your prince (or princess).
Good luck!
Ronnie (GRANDMAr)