Hi Hopeful:

I don't know what medications you use.

I cannot take RX pain meds, but Cymbalta helps a lot with my pain. And I take Aleve (Naproxen Sodium) too.

There are several anti-seizure medications that are very good for the pain of neuropathy, as well.

I have accepted that I will not get better as far as my PN is concerned. My Duke neurologist is trying his best to find the cause. However, each time I read about what ever the cause may be (currently I'm taking copper for a deficiency, for example, that he found), I read that eliminating the cause does NOT restore the damaged nerves. That is just in my case of course.

There ARE causes of PN where the nerve damage can be reversed. But my nerve damage cause is still unknown, although my Duke Rheumatologist believes it was prolonged usage of an antibiotic that is known to cause irreversible PN, in fact it often kills those who are unfortunate enough to have this rare but well documented reaction.

However, pain is a terrible companion, and I urge you to share and share what you are doing until you find some ways to alleviate your pain.

I have found that relaxation and meditation techniques are helpful.

I am active (!) in three book clubs, on the Executive Board of a organization, and treasurer of another organization.

My husband finds it hard to accept my level of disability but he no longer demands that I 'do things', and he understands that I cannot walk around looking at things for any length of time. We've been shopping for floor tile, and I have to sit down very quickly while he keeps looking.

I strongly suggest this book: How to Be Sick: A Buddhist-Inspired Guide for the Chronically Ill and Their Caregivers by Bernhard, Toni

It isn't religious or preachy or full of Eastern philosophy, just very very useful and wise.

What can you change? The only thing we can ever truly change is how we see ourselves and the world around us.

Does this sound like Pollyanna? Perhaps, but we can choose to be happy and useful.

Hugs, Elaine