Anyone here from central Illinois area that knows a real doctor? I mean, one that actually listens and understands? I think I will be lucky if I get out of bed today. Suffering in silence, frustrated to no end, and in severe pain. Left sacroiliac joint. Had injection 4-18-14. Pain is back, can't feel my toes and my right hand is numb.
I completely understand your situation--being in pain and frustrated..I live in Ohio..And I have yet to find a GOOD doctor that listens and understands..It's sad these days, when 1 out of every 30 doctors show compassion and understanding..What type of doctor are you looking for? Pain management, ortho/spine, or neurosurgeon?
Hi punky,
just started with a pain specialist last month. Not satisfied. They are not managing my pain and are apprehensive about giving out the stuff that actually helps me somewhat, like Norco. So I'm not on any narcotics, but to tell u the truth im beginning to completely understand why people self medicate. The health system really stinks and I work for a large hospital locally. Its a game. They refer you, then refer you, then order unnecessary expensive tests. That way, the doctors get what's called a production bonus for increasing revenue. I'm so tired of being bounced around the system. I'm ready to go out of town if I have too to find a doc that's really interested in helping people. Something is definitely wrong with my back. I guess I need to get the expensive MRI and get to the bottom of it. Until then, im just hiding from the world as much as possible so they can't see my pain. And thank you for responding to my post
My pain management doctor doesn't "manage" my pain either..If I'm constantly at a pain level of 7 or more, that's not managing..He keeps doing injections and radiofrequency ablation, which hasn't worked----not to mention the cost of those procedures, where I'm responsible to pay about 20%..I don't think I should have to fork over money I don't have, for procedures that don't work..I was just talking to someone earlier today about self medicating..It's almost as if that's the only choice--if no one else is going to help..I just had an MRI on Monday..(Which, I know will come out blurry because of the metal in my back)..But, if you haven't had an MRI in awhile, you should do it..I know it's expensive, but it may help you get better care and pain medication..Your doctor wouldn't even prescribe you Norco? Wow..I feel sorry for you and that you're in so much pain..I can't imagine not being on anything..As is, the only time I leave the house is for doctor appointments..And, I'd also be willing to travel out of state to find a good doctor!
@PunkyBrookster I am sorry to hear of your situation. After 5 years of telling them I was in terrible pain I got ignored and sent to a shrink. Finally got a DX for Parkinsons disease in 09. Now they will give me morphine if I ask. And they act all stupid cause they know the misdiagnosed me as a pill seeker having mental issues. Not to make this a political discussion but Obama care will only make all this worse for everyone. Take care and best wishes,
They shouldn't be pain management doctors if they're scared to write prescriptions for pain meds! I get that the DEA set new regulations..But a doctor isn't going to get in trouble for writing prescriptions for patients who have legitimate, documented pain..I also understand that injections are part of their job..In a perfect world, injections would work for everyone and would decrease their pain level (and the amount of medication they're taking)..In reality, no one I've spoke to has had total relief or a significant decrease in pain from injections..I feel that we live in a world where we have options to control pain--no one should have to suffer!
@flyboy57--I'm so sorry that you were misdiagnosed! I was told I needed to go to drug rehab after my first back surgery..Turns out, the reason I was in pain was because my back was fractured..I'm glad that they are now giving you pain medication!
@PunkyBrookster Thanks for your support. I hope you get the help you need as well. As I said I know what it is like to be denied the help you need.
Maybe thats why they treat me strange. I have had a psychiatrist for over 20 years with treatment resistant depression and anxiety. This pain tho, is not made up in my head. When you have to hold onto something just to get out if a chair, that's ridiculous. I'm not familiar with the new des regulations. Guess I had better look that up. Thanks..
@rosco64 We all know there are people will say anything to get drugs. While those of us who are truly sick fight a daily battle for wellness and a constant battle for treatment.
@rosco64--they shouldn't treat you any differently for seeing a psychiatrist..I've seen one on and off since I was a teenager..I'm still taking zoloft..I was put on it ten years ago, when I hurt my back, so I didn't become depressed..I'm so sick of doctors using depression and anxiety as a reason for pain..Even at my worst stage of depression, I NEVER imagined pain that wasn't there..And of course people with pain have depression and anxiety--when they're faced with the prospect of being in horrific pain daily, with little relief..That would make even the happiest person depressed! But look up the DEA regulations in your state..It's good to know them..(At least you'll know if a doctor is lying)..
@PunkyBrookster thanks punky! Have a great day!