Thanks Denise! I will have to give the heating pad a try and see if it helps me relax any. I am going to start seeing a new physiatrist so hopefully she can help me manage my pain a little more effectively. I even try to do as much as I can during the day to wear myself out but I still go 3-4 days without sleep then I crash.

As for the ick in your throat when you wake up, it happens to me as well. My PCP said it more than likely due to the meds. He suggested making sure I wasn't taking pain killers on an empty stomach or an antacid. I hope one of those help you!