I can't take any pain meds, and now that I've learned what gabapentin did to your stomach, I'm aghast that several doctors were pushing that medication. I've had GERD and an esophageal hernia for over 30 years, which I've handled with carefully planned menus, etc. Could not handle the meds prescribed for the GERD, meds which later turns out created issues for users, including risk of cancer. I can only shudder to think the added layer of pain if I'd taken the gaba and suffered what happened to you. So sorry you've had to deal with that.
I had the good fortune to have found an outstanding podiatrist, through a great deal of searching online, checking credentials, reviews, education, each doctor's philosophy about treatment approach. This doctor is not affiliated with any medical groups, which is essential for me, and gives his time generously. My prior podiatrist of over 30 years was just not addressing the neuromas, peripheral neuropathy, and other pain issues that contribute to a painful and unsteady gait. This new podiatrist uses ultrasound, taping, and gave me a brace for the ankle because it was "loose" from the over 2 yrs of lack of proper medical attention. In addition, as with your podiatrist, he created a prescription for a pain cream which was filled by a compounding pharmacy in another state. Generous sized pump container which gives just the right amount of cream per pump. No odor (I told him how sensitive I am to "smells" from OTC pain creams), not greasy, rubs on smoothly, and effective. Helps tremendously with the intense pain that often ebbs the entire foot due to the neuromas and then affects the hammer toe. Intense. Burning. Gripping.
Elevating the foot contributes to the relief. I'm so happy to now be in the care of a podiatrist who goes the extra mile to address the needs of his patient. My prior podiatrist is not missed at all.