Your wife should probably get into therapy right away. Severe chronic pain is very depressing and taxing.

Your wife should probably see a neurologist who has worked with patients who have this illness. If you aren't happy with one you've seen, seek a second opinion.

I am very appreciative of my topical cream that has Gabapentin, Lidocaine and Capsaicin in it. It helps a good amount! Mine has to be specially prepared at a special compounding pharmacy. I have recently discovered one has to check around for prices, because they can vary greatly. A doctor, usually a neurologist, needs to write a prescription for this.

I also take other meds that are helpful including Desipramine, Topamax and Baclofen. These are tablets. They, along with the cream, help a lot.

Elavil, which is like Desipramine, is famous for being very helpful and is a good antidepressant.

I suspect magnesium, and the B vitamins might be somewhat helpful. Also vitamin D3 can sometimes help fight depression.