I appreciate each response, very much! Since I've posted, the pain has not let up a bit!
I've had PN for six years. It began following heart surgery for afib. Afib followed Graves Disease. Heart meds gave me Lupus. I'm well now except for this PN. All tests point to Small Fiber Idiopathic. I've had three Neurologists. Quit the first after becoming tired of listening to all of his problems and all he wanted to do was give me more pills. The second was fine. Although after he gave me Cymbalta and it had severe side effects, he tried Lyrica, and when it failed (causing worse pain), he just told me to keep on Neurontin and do the best I can and pretty much seemed to push me off to the side.
So, going hunting for answers myself, I found this place. I read all the time, and get comfort knowing I'm not alone - though I hate others must suffer too from this horrible stuff. Family does not understand the agony of the pain. I grin and bear it best I can.
Lately, it has been almost too much.
I fell in the street (walking) in February. I had to have knee surgery in April, and am still recovering. I have swelling in my knee and leg, but it is getting better now. It has been a long healing process and will take up to a year I am told. I fell because of the PN making me so clumsy. I am grateful though that it is getting better, even if slowly.
I decided to try the acupucture and NAET when hearing about it from where I was getting physical therapy for my knee.
I have not been back since I last posted to you. I agree now, that it is not for me. I don't know if it caused my PN to worsen, or the summer heat, or the stress of knee recovering or what. But, the PN pain is still UP over what it was before the acupucture and NAET. I did read the article Billye mentioned, and would have to agree that NAET is questionable. But, for some reason my PN is so awful now I am not doing well. I've been very depressed. It has been hard to talk about anymore. I'm just too tired of the pain.
I see my heart doctor tomorrow for a check up, and will discuss the problem with her. I will see if I can get in to see my neurologist before Friday also. I just feel I won't get anymore answers than before. The drugs I can take are limited since I seem to have adverse reaction from so many.
I will take Billye advise and request blood tests. I do take B12, LCarnitine, and ALA. I once thought they were helping, but now nothing seems to help.
I'm sorry I sound like a cry baby. It has been really rough lately. Thank you for being here.
Carrie