Hi Everyone,

I'm a recovering Vicodin addict (clean since Oct. 2008) and was recently diagnosed with small fiber neuropathy. My life has completely changed due to the pain in my feet and hands (not to mention chronic muscle spasms I believe are caused by the sfn). My biggest problem is my past addiction. I feel like none of my doctors take my pain seriously or believe that it's as bad as it is. Right now I'm on Lyrica (75mgs twice a day) and although it helps, it doesn't take the pain away totally (not to mention it makes me incredibly loopy - worse than any painkiller did).

I want to try other medications, but am too afraid to ask because I don't want to look like I'm just looking for drugs. My shrink told me to ask my pain doc what she would do for someone who wasn't a recovering addict and tell her you want the same treatment. He says I deserve it, addict or not. Although I believe him I'm just not comfortable advocating for myself in that way.

Anyone else here have any experience, thoughts, opinions on the matter? Thanks in advance!

Jen