I went to a 2 week pain management clinic at the hospital. I was an outpatient but was there from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. I learned biofeedback, self-massage, physical therapy that I do myself at home, spoke with a Psychologist about how to cope with the pain and daily life, nutrition, etc. By the end of the clinic I had a daily schedule of everything I needed to do and a 3 ring binder with a copy of every exercise, self-massage, etc of these items on my schedule. My goal has been to get my pain to stay around a level 5 so I can at least function. I do not always reach that goal but I do reach it more often than not.

I was on 30+ medications. I am down to 15. Very few are for pain now. When the muscle pain and headaches get out of control I go to a Neuro Massage specialist and he gets my body back to where I can control the pain again. Last night it took him an hour and a half but he fixed it without any drugs.

Nerve pain is a different story. Sometimes the only relief is with pain meds but sometimes the PT and massage will help with that also.

We do not have to stay doped up on heavy pain meds but we do have to keep moving or the pain will continue.

I also "ditto" the comment on OlderCPerson, her information is accurate when she post. I have also read about some of the negative side effects of MJ. My doctors will not prescribe it.

Wishing all well.
Hugs,
RJ

From the bottom of my heart I want to thank each and every one of you who took the time to share your story, advice, and support. It's the most help I've gotten from anyplace or anyone. I am trying another pain management doc and also going to see about medical mj today [bearing in mind all the cautions you shared.] Friends, I've been trying to move around, etc., but I am just getting worse. I am not living, I'm just existing. I need more help to live and I'm losing all hope.

Hugs to both of you Gr8te & RJ, thanks for the kind words of support you guys! Hope life is being kind to you as winter has emerged and pain is not too bad.