Welcome to Neuro Talk. I sure do understand what you are experiencing. It is one or the other also for me. Not sure which one. The doctor I see is a physiatrist/pain specialist. I get a lotion which is no fun to rub in, but it gives me hours of blessed numbness. PM me and I will list ingrediants. I know alot of people get the DX. In my case, the doctor said it would be treated the same way, with the lotion and narcotic as needed. Got this after a surgery as you did. I really wish there were more of an answer, and difiniative way to treat this, but from what I understand the doctors don't really know how it works. Alot of people get a biopsy as well. This site can sure offer comfort and some compassion. NT will be here for you, and so will I. ginnie