Chronic Pain

My question is...after 10 years of being on the same medications (180 10/325's vicodins monthly, 90 50mg ultrams monthly) Ive talked to my dr. about what we could do so I could live a reasonable life like I was prior to my tolerance top, she said Im maxed and I just have to live with it? can anyone tell me what I should do?

Hi buckashow,
Welcome to ChronicPainConnection!

When your doctor says you're maxed, she probably means you've maxed out of the pain medications she is comfortable prescribing. The medications you're taking are actually two of the milder pain relievers available. Most primary care doctors do not like to prescribe anything stronger. So it may be time for you to see a pain management specialist, as there are a lot more options available. Your doctor should be able to recommend someone.

If you do see a pain specialist or go to a pain clinic, you'll be required to sign a Treatment Agreement before they will treat you. I strongly urge you to read this article before doing so: Treatment Agreements: What You Need to Know Before Signing

Good luck to you. I hope you'll let us know what you decide and how you do.

Karen

Thank you for the response but this is my PMS saying this to me, so what should I do, Ive had a spinal fusion L4-L5, I have Syatica, and DDD, Im suffering daily and he seems not to care, its not like Ive been on this regiment for 6-9 months its been since Aug 24th, 1999.

Wow! I was surprised to hear it was your PMS that told you you were maxed out. I know there are PMSs that are gun-shy about prescribing opioids, but I always wonder why they specialized in pain management.

I know it's not easy to do, but you might want to consider finding another PMS. Here's a link to a directory of pain doctors in case you want to try that: http://www.doctorsforpain.com/physicians/index.html

The only other think I can think of would be to try some complementary treatments in addition to the medication you're taking. One to consider would be acupuncture. Here's some info on it: Treating Pain With Acupuncture

Another is something called Mindfullness Based Stress Reduction. I know it sounds strange, but I know of people who have tried it and say it really does help. They don't claim it takes away all pain, but they do say they have improved. Here's a link to more information about it: Mindfullness Based Stress Reduction And here's a link to a directory to help you find a program in your area: MBSR Directory If you don't find a program through the directory, try calling local hospitals to see if they offer it.

I wish I could give you some better or easier options. The most important thing with chronic pain is to find a doctor who will listen and is willing to work with you. I know that's easier said than done.

Karen