Post by cyclingbob on Jul 22, 2017 14:06:49 GMT -6
This is a new thread that follows my request for info on Lyrica. Pain management GTR of T11-T12 - Lyrica dosage
Thanks to all for replies.
Lyrica did not work for me along with other meds. After much thought I have given up the search for the Holy Grail of pain relief. No meds.
This is an edited post from BORG - www.braintrust.org
You will not find the full post unless you join. Here is my take on the search for the Holy
Grail of pain relief.
MENTAL OUTLOOK AND THE HOLY GRAIL OF PAIN RELIEF
Even though my activity list has diminished I am still fortunate to enjoy being active. Activity is a privilege for me and keeps me "outside myself." I think the endorphins kick in and my mood
always brightens after a walk or other activity. I have never been disappointed after an activity. The pain level persists during these activities but I would rather be moving. I have tried new hobbies that require significant learning curve and are very rewarding. I have developed friendships as a result of these new hobbies.
I have converted my basement to my workout and hobby area including meditation. A mental safe place.
Pain Docs at Mercy Hospital in Portland ME have determined that drugs will not help. The good news is I no longer keep a pain log. I have given up the search for the Holy Grail of
pain relief. Honestly this a the best decision I have made in 10 months. I have tried no meds in the past but was afraid I was "missing" something. I am now sure I am not missing anything.
My Doc appointments no longer crowd my weekly/monthly schedule. Liberating. What a relief to have zero appointments.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES
Physical therapists have been a big help and my favorite medical folks after the Docs at MGH.
Core stretching at least 3x per week, tai chi 4-5x per week, tennis ball massage 5-6x/ week and daily walks are a staple.
I use a tennis ball to massage gluts and back for approximately 20 minutes mostly daily. I place a TB against my basement wall concrete foundation. PT says I cannot do any harm. "Let the TB find those points that need work and have at it." TB has been very relaxing and effective. No lasting help with pain but feels terrific at the time and aids in a good night's sleep if TB done after supper. Just plain feels good.
I hope this helps.
Bob
Spinal Cord Ependymoma (Intramedullary) T11/T12 with Rosenthal Fibers Grade II.
Operated at Boston MGH 7/30/12 - Laminectomy - Gross Total Resection. No radiation.
Tracy Batchelor Neuro Oncologist - Executive Director Pappas Center for Neuro-Oncology
John H. Shin Attending/Instructor Neurosurgery
Lumbar and Thoracic MRI 5/9/17 shows stable. Next MRI 5/8/18
Balance issues. Bilateral foot neuropathy/pain.
Neuropathy pain runs 6-7+ with no relief from meds. No meds.
Pain at gluteus medius/piriformis. Bilateral piriformis syndrome. Partially controlled with stretching.
Active with Tai Chi, stretching, pistol and rifle shooting, reloading and walking.
Retired October, 2016. Enjoying retirement. Should have retired earlier.
Boston MGH: I am very thankful for everyone’s expertise, anticipation of problems, and cheerfulness.
Thanks to all for replies.
Lyrica did not work for me along with other meds. After much thought I have given up the search for the Holy Grail of pain relief. No meds.
This is an edited post from BORG - www.braintrust.org
You will not find the full post unless you join. Here is my take on the search for the Holy
Grail of pain relief.
MENTAL OUTLOOK AND THE HOLY GRAIL OF PAIN RELIEF
Even though my activity list has diminished I am still fortunate to enjoy being active. Activity is a privilege for me and keeps me "outside myself." I think the endorphins kick in and my mood
always brightens after a walk or other activity. I have never been disappointed after an activity. The pain level persists during these activities but I would rather be moving. I have tried new hobbies that require significant learning curve and are very rewarding. I have developed friendships as a result of these new hobbies.
I have converted my basement to my workout and hobby area including meditation. A mental safe place.
Pain Docs at Mercy Hospital in Portland ME have determined that drugs will not help. The good news is I no longer keep a pain log. I have given up the search for the Holy Grail of
pain relief. Honestly this a the best decision I have made in 10 months. I have tried no meds in the past but was afraid I was "missing" something. I am now sure I am not missing anything.
My Doc appointments no longer crowd my weekly/monthly schedule. Liberating. What a relief to have zero appointments.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES
Physical therapists have been a big help and my favorite medical folks after the Docs at MGH.
Core stretching at least 3x per week, tai chi 4-5x per week, tennis ball massage 5-6x/ week and daily walks are a staple.
I use a tennis ball to massage gluts and back for approximately 20 minutes mostly daily. I place a TB against my basement wall concrete foundation. PT says I cannot do any harm. "Let the TB find those points that need work and have at it." TB has been very relaxing and effective. No lasting help with pain but feels terrific at the time and aids in a good night's sleep if TB done after supper. Just plain feels good.
I hope this helps.
Bob
Spinal Cord Ependymoma (Intramedullary) T11/T12 with Rosenthal Fibers Grade II.
Operated at Boston MGH 7/30/12 - Laminectomy - Gross Total Resection. No radiation.
Tracy Batchelor Neuro Oncologist - Executive Director Pappas Center for Neuro-Oncology
John H. Shin Attending/Instructor Neurosurgery
Lumbar and Thoracic MRI 5/9/17 shows stable. Next MRI 5/8/18
Balance issues. Bilateral foot neuropathy/pain.
Neuropathy pain runs 6-7+ with no relief from meds. No meds.
Pain at gluteus medius/piriformis. Bilateral piriformis syndrome. Partially controlled with stretching.
Active with Tai Chi, stretching, pistol and rifle shooting, reloading and walking.
Retired October, 2016. Enjoying retirement. Should have retired earlier.
Boston MGH: I am very thankful for everyone’s expertise, anticipation of problems, and cheerfulness.