Hi All. You may all be a god send. I'm 41 and 18 years ago I had an accident in the army. I broke both collar bones and herniated three discs. Plus have thoracic outlet syndrome. And assorted other fun bits. I have pain every day. Mostly manageable without drugs. But it flares up pretty bad. It flared up about 8 weeks ago. I've been in constant 24/7 pain for about 5 weeks. Bad. Excruciating pain. Rolled up on the bed crying pain. Note I have my teeth drilled without Novocain so I have a pretty high tolerance for pain. I'm on gabapentin, Percocet and some old Lortabs and flexeril. Nothing seems to be working. The va takes their own time. I have an MRI scheduled for the 24 and I don't see a dr until 10/11. I'm at my wits end. My arm feels like it's either on fire, being crushed, being zapped by a zillion volts of electricity or that super uncomfortable dull achy pain. It's 24/7. I don't know what to do. Only if I double a dose. Will I get to a point where I can't feel it. And then I'm so drowsy I fall asleep.

Anyway. Thank a for listening. I think I need to find a local support group. No one seems to be able to relate.

Night.

Matt

Hi Matt, Welcome.

There are many people here who can relate, myself included. One resource that may be of some use is The Intractable Pain Patient's Handbook for Survival. You'll find many more resources in the Chronic Pain forum. There are also forums for Spinal Disorders & Back Pain and Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.

Take some time to look around, and if/when you're ready to "talk", post something. If you need help in finding a local group, we may be able to help there too.

Best wishes,

Doc

Matt,

It is great to have you come and be with us. You will fine a great number of dear friends to listen when you are in need of ears. Please, just let us know how we can help you out. You will find out we are supportive and relaxing place.

Please keep us up to date on your situation. Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.