So this morning I am going to see PM Dr. for 2nd visit. This is when we discuss the stellate ganglion blocks. i don't know why I am a wreck just having to discuss them, maybe it is because of the seriousness of the condition and permanency? I have received a lot of good information here lately and I know ultimately it is my decision.

Obviously as in prior posts I have not had good reactions to the Lyrica and lidoderm patches. Has anybody else had to try a bazillion different med's before finding some that help? I have tried now lyrica, nuerontin,(SP) the patches, Cymbalta. I am trying to stay away from narcotics (just my preference, no addiction history here) but I am strongly reconsidering it.

thanks, just needed to vent!

I have tried a kazillion meds like Cymbalta and retried the same meds over the years. I have heard of others too. I am also on no narcotics. I am not against them for others or if one day I choose to go on them again. Just for now.
Have you had a block before?
I think with my pain apts I always get nervous. Just try to stay in the moment and tell them your fears and concerns. I know this is hard. Good luck at your apt.

No, I have never had these injections before, only cortisone (which did not work and hurt like heck!) Well, actually i did have a block before one of my hand surgeries, but he shot it into my arm, not neck. that is what worries me most, going in through the neck!

thnx

I had my first one on thursday and am getting another tomorrow. Personally, I was a nervous wreck and my doc had just diagnosed me the day before. We need to treat it agressively she said. Anýwho, twilight is how I got through it and I will have it again tomorrow. It really, really helps! And I got a couple hours of relief! Godsent!

Totally understand the anxiety. I go through that just about anytime I see a doc to discuss my pain and how to treat it.

And I think it is pretty normal to go through trying lots of different meds to find what works for you. A lot of times it is the "cocktail" of meds that makes the difference. I take Lyrica, Meloxicam (mobic), Tramadol (Ultram), Savella, and use the Lidoderm patches. When I was on Neurontin, Tramadol, and Celebrex with the patches I got zero relief. You may need additional things to supplement the Lyrica or Neurontin in order to get the relief that you need.

Also might be helpful to try a TENS unit and/or physical therapy...especially if the patches don't work for you. There also might be a cream that you wouldn't react to like the patches. There's lots of different options out there and it's just about finding what works for you.

They had me on narcotics for a while but I stopped taking them because they didn't help at all. I mean...I felt NOTHING from them.

Hope you are able to find the right meds to help you with your pain soon.

My first stellate ganglion block made the condition completely disappear. I still had most of my strenght and stamina then so it really felt wonderful.

If it works at all you're supposed to exercise until it starts wearing off. This might be anywhere from 15 minutes to 12 hours.