It's a real bad roller coaster during a thunderstorm...it'd definitely got ups and downs...look for the good parts of each UP and each DOWN...it's that or go bonkers?

Don't overanalyse which what may be the key aspect working? Keep it all up, it can't hurt you and what have you got to lose at this point?
ANY relief is REALLY GOOD RELIEF! Tho, yes, you can get 'used' to the pain in some ways...

Docs after almost a year would ask me my 'pain levels'..I'd reply, well, I've had it soo long, I don't think I'd know what 'no-pain' is any more...I really can't tell you...AND I DON'T DO, IN ANY WAY OR FORM those durned HAPPY FACES!!! GOT IT!!! Surprisingly, in that presentation, The DOCS get it! Go figger... Easier than swinging a 2"x4"x6' at them!