Finally getting treatment
 

Hi guys,

Here's an update on my situation. I have had some progress with nerve pain medication ( taking 20mg of Pamelor) and I'm starting therapy next week. My dr thinks I should be able to go to work in a few weeks (which would be awesome), however, I am really worried that I won't be able to perform, I still have pain and my hands/arms still feel like there is a hidden claw ripping in there.

If I do try to go back and I fail like before, I will reset my elimination period for LTD again and I really can't afford that anymore...I have already been at home unpaid for 4 months. LTD and WC have not made a decision.

I also have an app with Dr Lavor from Tucson on the 27th, the vascular surgeon.

Should I try to go back even if I am still in pain? If the pain stayed at this level I would be ok with it I guess, but if it escalated then it's no good.

Advice?:confused:

Just my opinion, but I think you would be more likely to benefit from therapy if you're not working. The Dr. "Thinks" you can go back to work in a few weeks, but that's only his opinion. It doesn't mean he's right.

I don't want to come across as lazy or whatever but yes, it's no fun to work in pain especially when you have to talk to customers and be all cheery.

I totally understand that. People that know me, can always tell right off, if I'm having a high pain day because I'm quiet and don't talk much. Its hard to be around people when you don't feel good.

If work comp claim, you pretty much have to do what the dr says..
But usually the PT sends a progress report to the dr, or you have a appt with dr before the dr releases you back to work. And the dr can include job limitations..in the release note.
The limit can be hours, days, break times, lifting or computer time limits.. but you & employer need to follow those. If employer can't fit a job to those limits, they can make you stay home..

So basically communicating with your doc is very important and make sure they understand any pain or symptoms you are still having..
I had to have my job restrictions rewritten a few times for clarification, as employer had me doing work that was making my pain increase.

Unfortunately if the pain med covers up the pain, it isn't "fixing" the problems, just covering up the pain.. when the time comes, be sure to ask if you will be injuring yourself more if you go to work while still on the med..

Work comp has not made a decision yet so I don't know...

As far as job limitations, I will be not be accommodated, I work in corporate in a very fast paced environment.

Something that my dr said was that typing would actually help me if done in an ergonomic way, which made me really confused because I feel like typing injured me in the first place, but maybe I'm wrong.

I'm worried about the medication covering up symptoms too...at the same time I really need to get back to work, I don't know anymore.

Mine flared up to post accident like pain after ten years which is now leading me to the rib resection. Try sitting in the exact position that you would at work for eight hours the day before you go back to the doctor? Just a thought....

Nelly, that is an antidepressant. How is an antidepressant supposed to help with an anatomical problem?

I haven't been in the office in a while due to holidays and such. Will be back this week. Dreading it. Will be in all day meetings with new team members and I know I'll be in pain at a time where I really need to perform.

Awful.

Pamelor is used for nerve pain, migraine headaches, and other secondary uses. It is an older antidepressant that does have benefits in other areas.