Pete, on one episode, he talked about part of his muscle being “missing.” I never caught exactly why, but I think it was some type of disease (as opposed to a car accident or something.) I think that the reason a Lidocaine patch is not used is that the pain is not localized enough. Also, I believe that there is “phantom” pain. Lidocaine will not do as much for that, just like it is less effective for our neuropathic pain than it is for actual injuries, like a tendon pull.

The missing muscle also explains why he uses the cane incorrectly. There is not enough strength in his leg to support his weight, and the cane is an assist for the burden.

Beside, part of the premise of the show would be gone if he didn’t have that pain and limp.

Jennelle, you are right that they have, more than once, implied that Vicodin use will make you a loony-bin abuser. Talk about bad information! I hate that. There are plenty of us opiate users who can remain in control.

Mike