I am sorry your pain is so intense. I agree with Dr. Smith in this post. If your quality of life is that hard, I hope you will seek another pain specialist to at lease try an opiate. I have taken one for years, I do not have side effects, and they can be safe when used as directed. The relief from pain that I receive is good. I also had katamine infusions. This did help me for a short amount of time. The trouble with them is that you have to keep repeting them. The proceedure was not that uncomfortable, and I had no bad side effects from trying that approach eithor. I hope you find a solution that will allow you a better quality of life. Do not be afraid of some stigma, regarding the taking of medications for pain. There are times, when the use of them is justified. ginnie