Unfortunately, I don't have a very good relationship with my Primary Care doctor, who also is in charge of my Pain Management. She's not abusive, and she seems to want to help in her own way. Unfortunately, her way involves me dropping all pain medication in exchange for physical exercise, which will somehow release enough endorphines to relieve pain all day, every day. I know that physical activity helps to relieve pain, but I have to be very careful with what I do & how much I do, otherwise I end up experiencing intense pain for at least an hour, or even the rest of the day.

Thankfully, I know I'm not the only one who thinks I'm not being treated correctly. When told of my treatment history up here, the doctors down in Seattle were shocked & couldn't understand why the Alaska doctors were basically shooting in the dark with their treatment plan. At least I know I'm not just crazy.

If anyone has suggestions on how to talk to your doctors when they aren't inclined to listen to you, I'd appreciate any tips. Would also appreciate any tips on what a person can do to relieve pain when it happens.

Maybe another doctor would be more helpful. I do know one does not get to pick and choose doctors at will and its more who is covered or in net work on your insurance ...if you are luck to have some or you are left with the one thats nearest etc. I found for me that Writing things down on paper and bringing them to doc apts and giving to the doctor was very helpful . it is the best way to have things on record and in your file with each of your doctors. I would write my questions why isnt exercise helping lessen the pain as your doc suggests... my "wonders" I wonder if this med would help more... My worries . i would sometimes go to my appointments with 4 or 5 pages of stuff . a copy for me and one to give my doc . the doc should put this in your file they have . it will give more time for the Doctor to read over and take in things . you can also print things off your comp or web sites to show your doctor. I did this with another issue unrelated to t.n. and the gastro doc took out his phone went to the website and promptly started me on the med suggested and I am doing good. Yes be careful with exercise because it changes the blood flow and that messes with the pain monster. I am gonna read some posts and respond to the pain relief question after . hope your having a relaxing night. Peace
BMW

Hi Itzagi,

I agree with BMW, write everything down and give your Dr a copy. But I would suggest keeping it to short, snappy, to the point Bullet Marks. That way you can run through your concerns together efficiently and your own words are set down in your Notes.

However, this doesn't always work. I did exactly this with my last idiot Neuro and got nothing answered - not even the most basic 'what is causing my compressed spinal cord, as shown on my MRI?' There is no getting around ignorant, but few Drs are SO bad that they will not work with you to your benefit.

Dave.