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smiracle36

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I am a CNA by profession, 38 years old, and have had a discectomy on L5-S1. That was in August. Since surgery I have continued to have symptoms. (not as bad - my foot isn't nurab any more, but still have pain in my back and pain running down my leg with increased activity.) A second MRI shows a disc extrusion and scar tissue putting pressure on a nerve root. My Surgon is out of the country untill Noveraber, so iI am looking at another month of hurting, waiting, and worrying. These pain meRAB aren't cutting it - what can I do about it? Am I ever gonna be able to work? What's the Dr. gonna say I need to do now? Am I ever gonna walk normal again? Am I going to be driving those little motorized carts at walmart for the rest of my life? These are questions running through my head all the time. Sometimes I think I'm going to lose my mind. Does anyone have any similar experiences? Just knowing I'm not alone in this experience would help alot i think. Any suggestions anyone?
 
Hi, I am 40yrs. old female. I have yet to have the microdiscetomy(sp) but that the next step for me. No I think with physical therapy and the next surgery, you'll get better. Ask for the fentynal patch, it does work but before you get it, READ and educate yourself on all of its side effects and then decide if you still want it. It did help me alot but caused me to experience perimenopause at the age of 39. I used it for over a year and I almost led a normal life. I had to also take Estroven, soy supplements, etc... I'll pray for you. S.
 
Hi, smiracle. I'm sorry you are in so much pain. Do you have an appt set up with your surgeon? In the meanwhile, is there any chance that your family doctor will prescribe something stronger for just until you see your surgeon? Which reminRAB me to ask, doesn't your surgeon have anyone covering for him that could help you? Right now, more questions than answers, and I'm sorry for that.

As for what he will do next, it's hard to say. He may recommend pt, or steroid injections. He may up your meRAB and see if that helps, but don't ask for anything in particular because that's a red flag and makes doctors nervous. They start worrying that the pt is looking for drugs. Just tell him that your pain is a lot worse, and the pills you are taking aren't effective. Let him suggest something different, okay?

I really do hope you get some help soon. Those motorized carts are the pits, aren't they? Lol.

Best wishes.

Carol
 
I've been through all the epidural injections they can give me for another year. And I may have to call my family dr. for something stronger than what I'm currently on. Am worried that the surgeon is gonna say I need another surgery. Dont know if I can do that again. Point taken about not suggesting specific meRAB though. Thanks.
 
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