Hey there @leigh17, I'm sorry to hear of your failed shoulder replacement and worsening back pain. Nerve "excitement" makes sense given all your body has been through. That's why I felt learning about central sensitization might be helpful. You check a lot of the CSS boxes.

You mention seeing your pain doctor and primary this week. Have you seen a neurologist yet? They can order a skin punch biopsy to officially test for small fiber neuropathy.

I went down the same path, taking a narcotic for pain relief, and used your very words of "hydrocodone is only taking the edge of". Please be aware opiates can induce hyperalgesia as well, so when we think they are helping for that small window of time, they can in fact induce more pain.

You have a lot going on and this all seems to have turned your life upside down over the past 6 years. I understand how important it is to get situated in diagnosis first, but I'm wondering if you've ever considered going to a pain rehabilitation program like Mayo Clinic? Not a pain doctor or pain clinic, but a program that helps you with function over feeling by preparing you physically, emotionally and behaviorally. It's different than pain management docs and places that focus on meds, injections and procedures. Just a thought.

Hang in there, my friend, and above all else keep your chin up! Good luck with your appointments this week.