I've been diagnosed with a herniated cervical disc, degenerative disc disease, carpal tunnel & others I can't pronounce. I have been prescribed 120mg Oxycontin a day for over 3 years and for quite a while it really helped with the pain. It allowed me to work with minimal discomfort, but eventually tapered off. I have asked him to either have the dosage increased or to prescribe something else for the break-thru pain and he refuses. During my visits he would always ask me about my pain level both with & without medication. First of all, pain tolerance is different for every person and can vary in any given day. I answered as best I could. I find this so-called rating ridiculous! Second, how can I give the doctor an answer about my pain level without medication? Does he think on some days I don't take any? I He is the one that diagnosed me and since I've asked for more pain relief he's treating me like a drug addict. I've searched the Internet and found this to be the case with many patients. As a result, I've lost my job due to excessive sick days and can't afford a new doctors' consultation fee. I am 47 now and could think of nothing else to do but file for Social Security Disability and that takes time. Not being able to work & be productive in anything is taking it's toll and I feel helpless. Has anyone been in this situation? I don't know what to do.