Sounds like you need to research and find a doctor more open to at least 'looking' at possible causes as well as a natural approach that can work in conjunction with western medicine. It can take a while to find a good neuro. I don't know of anyone that had that perfect match on the first go. As I said in another post, they are a rare breed and can be quite arrogant IMO. Not all of them, of course, but many.

I don't believe Neurontin will be very effective as an 'as needed' medicine (other then for the sleeping effect). It's meant to be taken regularly. And it usually has to be 'upped' initially just to get to the appropriate dose. Many can stay at that dose for quite some time, but others find that it eventually doesn't work after a while (but that can be years). I took it for about 4 years before I maxed out on dose and it wasn't effective any more. It wasn't difficult to taper off either. It's really an individual thing...as in all medicines are. Some have good results, while others don't.

I understand your anxiety about medicating for 40-50 years (I gave that much thought myself before starting to take pain meds)...but your PN will likely be there for 40-50 years , and I'd hate to see you give up treating it effectively NOW for the sake of future doses...when you may have the very same symptoms (or progressively worse) down the road. You'll never get back the time you missed now (possible pain free) if you chose not to treat it effectively. Again, just my opinion.

Talk to people and med centers about the neuros in your area. Do some research about them and try again. You're worth it.

And take pictures of your red swollen feet when that occurs. It's a very effective tool to take with you to appts.