How do you get doctors to realize that your really in pain?

1. 81

   breastpumpreviewsposted 13 years ago

   How do you get doctors to realize that your really in pain?
   
   My pain is very real and it is affecting all areas of my life.  I no longer carry a purse, don't do many chores at home (ie laundry, lawn, ect), decreased social life, and I have made many other lifestyle changes.  Sleeping used to take away my pain; however, even this no longer does the trick.
   I have a torn disc at L5/S1.  I have tried injections, physical therapy, rhizotomies, ice, and decrease activity levels that aggravate my back.  I need to have surgery on the disc but don't have the financial means to be out of work for 3 months.

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2. 72

   lburmasterposted 13 years ago

   They notice muscle tensing, stress, the way you stand. Etc.

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3. 67

   Matt Starkposted 13 years ago

   It is sometimes very hard.  Research shows that discs can heal over time, but managing in the meantime is very challenging.  Minimizing the time you spend weight bearing can help (sitting, standing, etc).  Bending and sitting are very rough on a disc.  You can speak to your physician about medication management and possibly a chronic pain program.  You can also discuss financial options for surgery.  If your doctor still doesn't answer your questions, maybe you can find a doctor who is a better match for you. 
   
   What sort of things have you done in physical therapy? 
   Have you tried acupuncture?

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   1. 81

      breastpumpreviewsposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      I have had a torn disc probably for many years and was undetected for a very long time.  I wrote a hub about my full story but as time goes by my pain is slowly increasing.
      
      In physical therapy, I tried exercises, tens stimulation, traction.

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4. 60

   duffsmomposted 13 years ago

   What about a TENS unit for the pain, would that be a possibility?
   
   Sometimes physicians are reluctant to get patient's involved in pain meds. 
   I would keep trying different doctors until you find one who will ilsten and be sympathetic.
   
   I have chronic pain, but not at the level you are describing. I know it can be very depressing, and life altering.  I cancelled seeing my grandkids today due to the pain. I didn't think I could go up the 3 steps into their house.
   
   I wish you the best, I know this is so hard.

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   1. 81

      breastpumpreviewsposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      I ordered a tens unit and am willing to try that to help manage my pain.

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5. 91

   innerspinposted 13 years ago

   Presumably you feel comfortable writing things down, as you write on HubPages.
   Perhaps you could send a letter to your doctor expressing just how much this is affecting your life. You could post it ahead of an appointment so they have a chance to read it beforehand.It's very difficult to feel you're not being understood.

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   1. 81

      breastpumpreviewsposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Thank you for your suggestion.  I wrote my dr a letter yesterday.  I recently did a capability function test bc I'm having issues at work due to pain and while I'm perfectly capable of doing tasks it causes me great pain to do them.

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6. 62

   ThussaysNanaMarieposted 13 years ago

   Try and see the newest kid on the block just out of medical school. They want to heal the world. Older doctors lack enthusiasm though they may be more experienced.

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