Living with chronic pain!

[scatterd]

my spine is curved I think when its not straight it can cause pain.I have had one disc after another go out.nerves are painful you could have pinched nerves.They cant see that but they can tell by the way it curves.

Tell them spine doctor.

[Meaplus3]

my spine is curved I think when its not straight it can cause pain.I have had one disc after another go out.nerves are painful you could have pinched nerves.They cant see that but they can tell by the way it curves.

Tell them spine doctor.

 

I also have some degenerative disc disease which is not an un common finding for a woman my age. But, you see what throws me here, is the fact that the pain radiates to my sternum area. That to me signals heart. and with a family history of CAD.. I can not seem to let go of that worry. Yes, I'm young for that, but it can happen. The chiro I was seeing also made it worse. The pain left for the summer than returned again this fall. It's so odd and scares me.:( And some days are better than others.

 

 

Mea:)

[sb129]

You can get referred pain from one area of the body to another- one commonly known example of this is left arm pain when you have a heart attack. So while its in one area it might be something else causing it. Sorry to sound so vague- I am not a dr, so couldn't even begin to guess what could refer to the area mentioned.

 

I am not a big fan of chiropractors I am not fully convinced by the "science" they practice under.

 

Personally I would rather find out what was actually wrong rather than start taking meds like tramadol- thats some pretty heavy duty pain relief, and it can be addictive too. (I know you would rather find out the cause too Mea, just responding to a previous poster).

[Meaplus3]

You can get referred pain from one area of the body to another- one commonly known example of this is left arm pain when you have a heart attack. So while its in one area it might be something else causing it. Sorry to sound so vague- I am not a dr, so couldn't even begin to guess what could refer to the area mentioned.

 

I am not a big fan of chiropractors I am not fully convinced by the "science" they practice under.

 

Personally I would rather find out what was actually wrong rather than start taking meds like tramadol- thats some pretty heavy duty pain relief, and it can be addictive too. (I know you would rather find out the cause too Mea, just responding to a previous poster).

 

 

I'm not a big fan of chriopractors for the same exact reason. No worries with the pain pills, that's not my choice. I won't even use the pain patches they have given me. I read the warnings on them and it says may cause a heart attack... ok.. not for me thanks.

 

The burning pain is odd. It does come and go with change of position and never bothers me when I sleep. Just odd. I'd like to get to the bottom of it, but it looks like that's not working. I also realize that stress can make it worse, but I do not by into the fact that this pain is all caused by the mind. Anway.

 

Mea:)

[ufo8mycat]

Hi Mea, I know you mentioned that you had seen many specialists but have you seen a pain mangement specialist?

 

Chronic pain doesn't always have a cause. I suffer from chronic neck pain and severe headaches from damage to the facet joints. My pain is based on trauma but many people have chronic pain that just starts for no good reason.

 

If you have been throughly investigated with no obvious cause then a pain specialist may be able to help you. There are a number of interventions that you can use to flatten the peaks and troughs of flare ups. Chronic pain is your nervous system going mad. It doesn't mean there is something bad going on.

 

The pain specialist reviewed my medication and I now rely less on rescue pain killers. I have had five nerve blocks which helped significantly.

 

Good luck, I know how distressing chronic pain is and it was hard to come to terms with the fact that the rest of my life could be like this. But there are people out there that can help you.

[Meaplus3]

Hi Mea, I know you mentioned that you had seen many specialists but have you seen a pain mangement specialist?

 

Chronic pain doesn't always have a cause. I suffer from chronic neck pain and severe headaches from damage to the facet joints. My pain is based on trauma but many people have chronic pain that just starts for no good reason.

 

If you have been throughly investigated with no obvious cause then a pain specialist may be able to help you. There are a number of interventions that you can use to flatten the peaks and troughs of flare ups. Chronic pain is your nervous system going mad. It doesn't mean there is something bad going on.

 

The pain specialist reviewed my medication and I now rely less on rescue pain killers. I have had five nerve blocks which helped significantly.

 

Good luck, I know how distressing chronic pain is and it was hard to come to terms with the fact that the rest of my life could be like this. But there are people out there that can help you.

 

 

Thank you UFO. No. I have not seen a pain specialist. I'm trying the PT, and working on correcting my posture. I have good days and then not so good days. But lucky for me, the pain does not get me down to the point where I can't function. I guess over all if anything it simply worries me.. and then when I worry it gets worse. It's sort of a vicious cycle.

 

Mea:)

[whichwayisup]

I don't know if this has been brought up before, but is it possible you have the beginning stages of fibromyalgia? don't want to freak you out by saying that either..I know afew people who have this, and are OK - But, it is something to look into..

[Meaplus3]

I don't know if this has been brought up before, but is it possible you have the beginning stages of fibromyalgia? don't want to freak you out by saying that either..I know afew people who have this, and are OK - But, it is something to look into..

 

It had been mentioned and it's very possible. I guess that's a hard one to pin point.

 

Mea:)

[ufo8mycat]

This book is really good -

 

http://www.amazon.com/Manage-Your-Pain-Michael-Nicholas/dp/0285636790

 

If your pain gets worse under stress then this book has some good desensitisation strategies. Even if it doesn't impact your daily functions it sounds as though it worries you. It is a cycle that can be broken.

 

Fibromylagia can be diagnosed by a pain specialist or a rheumatologist. Although one of the defining features is that the pain moves around and can be hard to pin point.

 

If PT doesn't work (I went twice a week for 18 months before going, you know what? This isn't getting any better!) then it might be worth exploring other options. Pain that lasts over 3 months is considered chronic pain - so there are a lot of people out there suffering!

[Meaplus3]

This book is really good -

 

http://www.amazon.com/Manage-Your-Pain-Michael-Nicholas/dp/0285636790

 

If your pain gets worse under stress then this book has some good desensitisation strategies. Even if it doesn't impact your daily functions it sounds as though it worries you. It is a cycle that can be broken.

 

Fibromylagia can be diagnosed by a pain specialist or a rheumatologist. Although one of the defining features is that the pain moves around and can be hard to pin point.

 

If PT doesn't work (I went twice a week for 18 months before going, you know what? This isn't getting any better!) then it might be worth exploring other options. Pain that lasts over 3 months is considered chronic pain - so there are a lot of people out there suffering!

 

Thank you very much for this info. And I agree 100% that if after some time the PT does not work other options will need to be explored. I do know that when I don't mess with my back all that much by means of massage and intense yoga, it does not bother me as much. It seems like the more it's played with the worse I suffer. This stumps me so??:confused: Oh and as for my pain, it's focused around the upper thoratic spine area and radiates into my sternum.. sometimes travels into the ribs and up my neck. So it does move around a bit. It's just odd and puzzeling.

 

Mea:)

[Jaspe_Loco]

I am very down right now. I am so tired of this burning upperback pain and sternum pain that I get pretty much on a daily basis. As many of you know(since I've posted about it) I've had just about every test in the book to rule out a major health issue. My heart, and lungs I've been told look it be in fine shape. So, here I am young, in good shape, with three beautiful small children to chase after and I feel like c***! My therapist does not believe this pain is all due to emotions. It's real pain.. but there is no answer for it. I'm sick of going to health boards as they don't help, they only make things worse. I am pleased that I have been able to work through my panic. Have not had an attack in over 3 months. So this pain is NOT panic related. I'm now beign sent to PT, but I don't have high hopes that this will work. A chriopractor makes it worse, and for that matter so does massage. This is an awful way to live and it's really getting me down. Can anyone relate? Is there anyone on here that has chronic pain with no cause found? If so how are you coping with it?? Many thanks.

 

Mea:)

 

 

I'll share with yo my story... it may be helpful. I'm a 38 year old guy, 6'1", 190 lbs. I was in an auto accident when I was 21 and suffered 3 herniated disc which have since evolved into disc degenerative disease and spinal stenosis. I was in physical therapy for nearly a year after the accident, but since have worked out regular and suffer lower back problems maybe 7-10 days a year.

 

We'll get back to that in a minute. For years I would have pain in my left shoulder, shoulder blade, and upper back area. It was similar to a pinched nerve and would occur 5 or 6 times a year for days at a time. One day I was ironing my shirt and my wife noticed a sizable not in my upper back an inch or so from my spine. It was tender to the touch and pressing hard enough would trigger pain the aforementioned areas. I had the not removed. It turned out to be a lipoma about the size of my thumbs and based on the scar tissue, had likely been there for years. I never considered a connection to my upper back pain, but that was almost 4 years ago and I haven't experience any upper back pain at all.

 

Back to my lower back. After all of these years without major problems, last month my lower back started acting up, but this time it last over 6 weeks. MRIs confirmed progression of disc degenerative disease, herniation, and spinal stenosis. I'm allergic to corticosteriods and spinal fusion is not an option because I have three levels of herniation. After some rest, things got a little better, but it was off and on for most of six months. About a month ago, I noticed a growth in my lower spine similar to the one found on my upper back. After a few doctor's visits, I was referred to a spinal surgeon and basically told me I was SOL. None of the doctors I visited believed it the growth had anything to do with it but the SS agreed to inject me with a local anesthetic. An hour later, no pain. I had better range of motion than I had had in months.

 

I had the growth removed last week. It was another lipoma, 2 x 4 cm and was deep into the muscle tissue. I haven't had any lower back pain since... aside from the nasty incision.

 

I did a little research on lipomas after that and have found that they are often the source of pain in cases where the source is difficult to find. They're not easily detected except for palpation and even then, most doctors write them off as nothing. I found dozens of cases similar to mine.

 

I recommend that you Google lipomas and learn a little about them. Then maybe persistently ask you doctor about them and the possibility this could be causing your pain. I feel like a new man!!!

 

Good luck!!

[Meaplus3]

Hi Jaspe. Thanks for taking the time to share this info with me. I'm sorry for all you've had to go through, but I am VERY glad to know you have found the source of your pain. I did look up lipomas as you mentioned, and in my case I don't think this is the culprit. I'm starting to think this might be more of a fibromyagia (sp) thing. I looked that up and I guess in order to have that one has pain tender spots. There are 18 on the body per say. I took a little quiz and I have 11. So, this means that I really should see a rheumatologists who would be the correct doc to make that diagnosis. I'm going to run it by my primary and see what he thinks. Right now, IMO this PT is one big waste of my money and time.

 

Mea:)

[freestyle]

I'm going to suggest trying some gentle yoga, as it benefits the body as well as the mind...........................especially the mind.It can be an amazing de-stresser. No need to become a human pretzel,, but simple poses combined with breathing exercises could possibly help you immensely.

 

I subscribe to the theory that the bulk of good health begins with the mind, and consciousness......................

 

I'm so sorry you have to live with pain like that, I'm quite familiar with it myself.

 

SB mentioned acupuncture, I'm curious, have you tried it or considered it?

It's done wonders for my shoulder issues.

[Meaplus3]

I'm going to suggest trying some gentle yoga, as it benefits the body as well as the mind...........................especially the mind.It can be an amazing de-stresser. No need to become a human pretzel,, but simple poses combined with breathing exercises could possibly help you immensely.

 

I subscribe to the theory that the bulk of good health begins with the mind, and consciousness......................

 

I'm so sorry you have to live with pain like that, I'm quite familiar with it myself.

 

SB mentioned acupuncture, I'm curious, have you tried it or considered it?

It's done wonders for my shoulder issues.

 

I am doing Yoga twice a week and while it works well for the rest of my bod.. lol. It makes my back one big ouchie. I also am about to start skating again and I take modern dance.. so the dancing helps, and I know skating will feel good to. Just won't be able to do any laybacks.:lmao: As for acupuncture, that's on the list to try.

 

Mea;)

[marlena]

I'm starting to think this might be more of a fibromyagia (sp) thing. I looked that up and I guess in order to have that one has pain tender spots. There are 18 on the body per say. I took a little quiz and I have 11. So, this means that I really should see a rheumatologists who would be the correct doc to make that diagnosis.

 

Mea,

 

I would definitely check into this. It could very well be the cause of all your discomfort. I was reading up about it and does sound plausible.

 

I also agree with the poster about how the mind can affect the body. So, try to rid yourself of as much stress as possible. I made up my mind not to allow people and stressful situations into my life anymore and it helped tremendously. I even announced it to my friends and family, telling them that if any of them caused me any undue stress, they wouldn't be seeing much of me. They knew I wasn't kidding either.

 

So try to find time to relax and let nothing and no one upset you.

[Meaplus3]

Mea,

 

I would definitely check into this. It could very well be the cause of all your discomfort. I was reading up about it and does sound plausible.

 

I also agree with the poster about how the mind can affect the body. So, try to rid yourself of as much stress as possible. I made up my mind not to allow people and stressful situations into my life anymore and it helped tremendously. I even announced it to my friends and family, telling them that if any of them caused me any undue stress, they wouldn't be seeing much of me. They knew I wasn't kidding either.

 

So try to find time to relax and let nothing and no one upset you.

 

 

I agree Marlena about reducing stress.I know that stress and a very active mind such as mind can make things worse. Anway, I got back form PT.. and guess what? I got a ref to see a rheumatologist who is the appropriate person to check me for fibro. I'm happy about this because perhaps it will guide me in the right direction.

 

Mea:)

[marlena]

Well done, Mea. Hope you get to the bottom of this soon. Let us know how it goes. I might have myself checked as well.

 

I know what you mean about an overactive mind. I swear I build up my own stress levels with my thoughts. But I am getting better at controlling my thoughts and breathing..that always helps!

[Meaplus3]

Well done, Mea. Hope you get to the bottom of this soon. Let us know how it goes. I might have myself checked as well.

 

I know what you mean about an overactive mind. I swear I build up my own stress levels with my thoughts. But I am getting better at controlling my thoughts and breathing..that always helps!

 

 

Thanks. It just amazes me how you really have to be your own health care advocate these days. Gosh, I've had to stand up for myself here for the past 18 months. And these docs make the big bucks?? For what I ask? Oh that's right to miss guide patients!! lol Little pent up anger vent there.:eek: Anway, deep breathing is a big help. It does slow down the mind and really is a big help to me. So Marlena this is for me and you. Let us remember these words from the song "Breathe" By Anna Nalick.

 

And breathe, just breathe

woah breathe, just breathe,

Oh breathe, just breathe,

Oh breathe, just breathe.

 

Mea:)

[freestyle]

Inhale for a count of 8.

 

Hold it for a count of 8.

 

Exhale for a count of 8.

 

repeat above procedure 4 times.Your blood pressure will drop, this has been documented.

 

It's great for relaxation.(when you don't have the option of a banana lounger and a palm tree:):) )

[Meaplus3]

Inhale for a count of 8.

 

Hold it for a count of 8.

 

Exhale for a count of 8.

 

repeat above procedure 4 times.Your blood pressure will drop, this has been documented.

 

 

Yes. This works. And you know it can make pain feel better.

 

 

It's great for relaxation.(when you don't have the option of a banana lounger and a palm tree:):) )

 

 

 

:lmao:

 

Mea;)

[Meaplus3]

Well, I just got my hormone testing back, and it looks like I'm no longer ovulating. Progesterone levels like Zero.. real low. I looked up what this can cause and fibro.. as well as many other of my pain symptoms are on the list.. so, HORMONES.. the culprit. I guess I feel better knowing this.

 

Here is a list in case anyone is interested.

 

http://www.hormone-healthy.com/Symptoms_of_low_Progesterone.htm

 

Mea:)

[Brady_to_Moss]

Mea you will get through it!

 

 

I am only 20 and have had back surgery for a herniated disk as well as 2 hernias. My back is in constant pain. Meds don't help so it sucks but i am just lucky i am here!

 

Hope you feel better

[Citizen Erased]

Well, I just got my hormone testing back, and it looks like I'm no longer ovulating. Progesterone levels like Zero.. real low. I looked up what this can cause and fibro.. as well as many other of my pain symptoms are on the list.. so, HORMONES.. the culprit. I guess I feel better knowing this.

 

Here is a list in case anyone is interested.

 

http://www.hormone-healthy.com/Symptoms_of_low_Progesterone.htm

 

Mea:)

I'm glad it's made you feel a little better. How has the burning pain been lately? I know you and your kids are sick at the moment so I'd imagine that pain would be a nightmare to have right around now. Sorry I haven't returned to this thread since I first posted, makes it hard to read about others sometimes...hope you're okay Mea.

[Meaplus3]

Mea you will get through it!

 

 

I am only 20 and have had back surgery for a herniated disk as well as 2 hernias. My back is in constant pain. Meds don't help so it sucks but i am just lucky i am here!

 

Hope you feel better

 

Hi Brady. Thanks for your support. I'm sorry to hear you've had to live through chronic pain. I hope you are finding a way to control it.. so you don't feel bad.

 

 

 

I'm glad it's made you feel a little better. How has the burning pain been lately? I know you and your kids are sick at the moment so I'd imagine that pain would be a nightmare to have right around now. Sorry I haven't returned to this thread since I first posted, makes it hard to read about others sometimes...hope you're okay Mea.

 

Well it's so odd CE. I've had this headache on and off for the past 2 weeks. Now, when I get the headache, the pain travels up my neck and then my upperback and sternum don't hurt.. it's super odd. I do know that if I have, fibro(seeing a fibro specialist in the am) Hormones can make the flair ups worse. Today I'm having a pain free day, aside from the pain of seeing my kids sick. Thanks for your kind words and support. I hope you are doing well.

 

Mea:)

[boldjack]

Mea, No hormones? Does this mean you are pre-menopausal?