@motorcarrier, @jetsetter, and all...Hello, I found after years of steroid injections and nerve blocks...I sat up one day and said -I don't think so. I simply decided no more steroids. no more shots. I'm finding a better way to handle this pain...it's not 'my' pain...I don't claim ownership of any of it. That's a big part of beginning to take control of the entire situation.

I found once I made this decision and began to claim health, I very slowly began to feel better. I do some strange things for myself....began deep, diaphragmatic breathing when I have any pain flare It's especially helpful for lower back pain and some for cervical pain. I also began to accept the situation, acceptance was a key turning point. No more fighting, no fight or flight, no more additional adrenalin. And, as little medication as possible.

I'm this year off gabapentin, Lyrica, oxycodone, 800 mg ibuprofen 4x daily-which helped greatly-reduced swelling, Celebrex which helped a lot, Only take regularly- Robaxin muscle relaxant helps with cramping and spasms, an occasional Tylenol and Voltaren gel that does help some. especially with fibromyalgia pain and some arthritis, and I also use frankincense and myrrh with coconut oil balm to relieve general muscle issues. I take Requip and Iron+C for RLS. Use a Bi-pap for sleeping. All that together is a pretty good plan. Now, the addition of medical marijuana has sealed the deal, with therapy pool exercise 2x daily and walking as I can.

I use music to add to relaxation, schedule an hour nap around now and don't have any guilt for not being the body I used to be, for resting the day following doc appts or whatever. I embrace rest. For the first time in my life. It was a sin to sit and rest, God forbid I lie in bed with sunlight outside! When I'm ill, or in more discomfort, I stay in bed and enjoy the comfort I'm still working on meditation, as it's a bit challenging for me. Focus isn't my strongest point. So, I use music, as I research online and learn about these issues. I have multiple bird feeders outside my glass doors and many, varied feathered friends who visit daily So relaxing. and good company. The most dramatic help comes from the MM tincture nightly, 1:1, Thc: CBD. One dropper full before bed and I feel my muscles loosen and relax, the pain begins to drift out of the muscles and body. Amazing weed, that is.

So, take control and be your best advocate. Pain management doctors weren't the answer. Now, only Mayo Clinic Florida is for me. They've diagnosed multiple issues, helped me reduce chemical medication, added exercise in the therapy pool, acupuncture, massage, a nutritionist, counseling, and psychiatry guidance. This place has saved me and set me on a positive path to a better rest of my life, however long that is. I'm almost happy! Getting there. I hope the same for you. Take control. Be your best advocate. I think it takes a team working with you to get the kind of help you need for a better life.
Blessings and may you find the best team for you. elizabeth