Hello Aaron,

Welcome to this thread and the super people who post here and try to help others.

The best part of your post was to read that you will be seeing a neurologist tomorrow or Tuesday. That is a good start, though a long overdue one. It would be improper of me to second guess what your doctor will say regarding medication.

The neurologist will be asking about your pain, etc. Tell him/her what you have told us here plus any additional information you feel the doctor should know. AND ask the doctor the questions that are on your mind after your exam. I hope the neurologist takes an x-ray.

Regarding pain medication - First, I am not a doctor, however, I do have some thoughts regarding pain meds. Many of them can become addictive within a week or so. You can also get side effects from such medications. If your doctor does prescribe a pain medication at this time, ask him/her about the possible side effects.

Pain management doctors - When I first heard the terms about a year ago I had no idea what they did. From my experience, they try to reduce your pain by such means as epidural injections, physical therapy, and yes pain medication. I have a FANTASTIC PM doc. Because of him my back pain is much reduced and I can function fairly normally.

AND, do seek out the best neurologist/spinal surgeon that you can find in your area. It is always a good idea to get at least one "second opinion" in my opinion.

Hope all goes well, and do let us know how things go for you.

RichT

I agree 100% with Rich T. Starting out with a good neuro is the best thing. You have to get to the source before you can fix it. Listen to Rich. He gives excellent advice.

Carrie

I have been talking to my mom about a pain management doctor and she said that it takes a long time just to get a pain management doctor. I really am ready to try just about anything at this point. What do you think will be the first step of the process because I have already tried heat and ice and several otc medicines like tylenol and motrin. I have experienced with a lot of medications before in the past and know what works for my pain. What was your treatment like? I am hoping for a combination of physical therapy and medication. What would be my best bet of achieving this?

I personally would start with my GP. Get refferals from the office for a neurologist first. I would think that would be the best start if you don't already have a neuro. If you do, then I would ask him he/she thinks about the combination. Most will agree they go well together with pain management. I was lucky. My neuro himself is monitering my pain management himself. Otherwise, I too would be going to a pain management center for treatment. I have been on three different pain meds in two months. What I am on now seems to be working best for me. I need PT but can not attend due my 55% fractured vertabre. Actually have an appointment in the morning with neurosurgeon.
So, in saying this, I think the combination is a good on and most doctors do too. Pain management will get you where you belong as far as medications go. And PT will help you build streangth in the spine.
Did your doctor add any calcium to you diet. I take 500mg w/D twice daily plus Boniva once a month.

Best to you,
Carrie