I think we all try to put off this step as long as possible. I have dealt with neuropathy for 19 years now and tried everything under the sun for the pain and other symptoms. About 5 years ago I found low doses of narcotics to be helpful...but still suffered to some degree. It was just last month (at the advise of my neuro at Hopkins) that I finally got to see a real pain mgmt doctor (after a long 3 month process to get in) to properly address my pain and give me back some quality of life. I left the first visit crying, not from the pain, but because someone actually talked to me about my pain, listened to me about my pain, and in the end, cared about my pain. That had never happened before. Now I can honestly say I have less pain on a regular basis...I really don't remember the last time my pain level was this low on the scale. I'm sleeping better, feeling better and doing more. I still have flairs and moments with higher pain level, bout overall, I'm happy with my choice and feel like I can (and will) make the most of every day I have now.