I am new to the group but not new to pain. I have been in pain 24/7 for about 5 yrs due to low back problems, ddd, stenosis. I also have fibro but isn't the source of most of my pain. It took 4yrs to diagnose my problems as the MRI's showed mild degenerative disc disease and slight bulges but said should be causing me so much pain. I went through many epidurals and nerve blocks, pain meds, morphine, oxycontin, methadone and still unbearable pain. I was without ins. for a few yrs while waiting for SSD so was unable to pursue any further testing. I was finally approved for SSD & then qualified fro Medicare. I had a discogram which showed the exact problem, the discs at L4-5and L5-S1 were serverely degenerated with an annular tear and the disc leaking on the nerves, there was a fragmented disc on the nerve root. I had a choice of a fusion or a less invasive procedure, an endoscopic surgery with laser which is what I opted for. I was told either procedure would only relieve leg pain not back pain. Needless to say, the procedure didn't work so now I am left with no money for a fusion and do not want to risk it not working and since I will still have back pain why bother. I admit the worst pain is in my leg with a lot of burning. I am only taking vicodin and amitriptyline now. I can't afford the longer acting drugs and have had really bad side effects with them. The methadone was inexpensive and it was pretty effective but the side effects were horrible, mostly horrific sweats and the breathing trouble. I also use valium for spasms which are getting worse lately.
I like to read, crochet, listen to music and watch movies. I am divorced x25yrs and live alone but have a very nice male friend who doesn't always understand. I have 2 grown children and 4 wonderful grandchildren who live about 2hrs away. I was just diagnosed with gallstones and see a surgeon on the 22nd so will most like be going through surgery for that this summer. I have had some horrible pain from it but at least I know it can be fixed.
I am trying to lot let this pain control my life but feel that it is who I am now and I am losing the real me, it is exhausting. I guess my story is pretty common and I know that I am luckier than a lot of people, I am fortunate to not have had to go through this when I was younger and raising children. Thank you all for letting me share with you.
Lucy (Karen)
I use Lucy because I have red hair and when I was young I was teased and called Lucy, along with a few other names.
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