Hi Daniella;

You mentioned the lidocaine patch. This is much different than pain patches, a method of delivering pain meds. I use the lidocaine patches and they do help, although nothing I take completely ever takes the pain away. You may want to talk to your doc about the pain patches. Also, if the vicodin isn't working, have you tried percocet, (which is oxycodone with acetaminophen)? I take that for breakthrough because my pain doc says it's best for nerve pain. They all have different opinions and that can drive a person nuts when they see 5+ doctors for their condition.

Unfortunately, it takes a very long time to find an answer for pain control. You may have to find a new doc. Mayo in MN has a program for pain. I think it is a week long and others have had their insurance cover it. Something to look into. I'm so sorry you are in pain and that exams hurt you. I have the same problem but I must look mean because when I tell them not to touch me, they don't! lol

Wish I had more to tell you. Hang in there.

NancyH