Looking For Answers
 

Hi,
I have been in pain for 3 years now with only medication treatment which i dont want to be on the rest of my life. The pain is in my groin, testicles, and radiates down my inner legs. I take amitriptylin, gapapentin, and tramadol which is the medication i dont like because of its habit forming properties. I have had a mri and a emg with no results so i feel like there is no answer. Sex can increase pain sometimes as well. The doctor told me its a type of neuralgia/neuropathy with no explanation. I think he just does not know. Has anyone had this same pain issue and what is your opinion. Thanks for you support.

Tim

Hi Tim, Welcome.

Is this doctor a neurologist? If not, it might be a good idea to ask for a referral to see one. It's quite possible that it's exactly what he said it is, and that he doesn't know. Medicine knows a lot, but there is still much more that they don't know than they do know.

Are you keeping a diary or journal documenting the pain, how bad (1-10), location, type (description), what helps, what makes it worse, etc.? You can find examples/templates online. Google: pain diary journal
This may help your doctor(s) help you.

Have you had any physical therapy or tried any other therapies? Has anyone (your doctor) suggested Pain Management?

All three of the medications you are on are dependence-producing (all three can cause physical withdrawal if discontinued abruptly). If you have been taking tramadol for three years, and during that time have taken it only as directed and had no abuse issues, then it is unlikely that you will have any in the future. More importantly, are the meds working; are they helping you to function?

Doc

answers
 

Tim,
a second opinion, even a third can sometimes give answers. There can be a number of different ways to interpret the information that comes from the tests you have taken.

I'm not a human Dr., but as a veterinarian, I can tell you that sometimes even with all the tests, there are just some things we don't know. Its a very frustrating experience. Often, a particular condition is something that Dr.s have never come across. In the veterinary world, we have a network which allows us to post cases where they will be read not only in this country, but others as well. I imagine M.D.s have something similar. There are times when I post a case and not one person can help.

From the patient side of view, I understand your frustration as no Dr.s have been able to tell me why I have constant migraines. There is frustration, some anger, wondering why with all this test information no one can give me an answer. If your Dr. is good, he or she won't be upset or get defensive if you want another opinion.

Sam