((((((Pam)))))),

I hope to 7734 you're not suggesting what I think you're suggesting

Please -- NO!! Call 1-800-suicide.

You need to be going to a neurologist and a pain management specialist at a teaching hospital.

I'll just bet that they could probably do a radio frequency lesioning to get rid of the nerve that's causing the pain.

I used to get lumbar spinal epidurals. They did absolutely nothing. I got the radio frequency lesioning done. Still nothing. Then I got the epidural done again -- over 18 months of total pain relief It's now starting to come back at about 20 months. I really think the the nerves re-routed after the RFL and the new nerves were in a position that was easier to get to.

Have you tried Cymbalta or Effexor XR yet?? Both of them are unbelievable for the nerve pain. I have neuropathy in my hands and feet and forearms and forelegs (??) from a blood condition. I could not stand even holding my cane before I started taking the Cymbalta. Most of the pain is gone now. I can function. I can hold my cane.

Please, sugar. Don't give up hope.

Make a plan:
First -- one of the drugs that I mentioned.
Next -- make an appointment with a SENIOR neurologist and pain management specialist (not a needle jockey) at a teaching hospital near you.
Next -- hold on to us and we'll go from there.

BIG HUGS. I'm good at doing research. If you want me to find a top-notch doctor in your area, send me a private message.

Barb