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LuckyCharms

(20,940 posts)
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 08:36 AM Tuesday

I may be taking a break for a bit.

I'm in a bad way here, and I'm not sure what to do.

I'm caught in a "medical loop" of doctors and suffering badly with pain. I can't get any relief.

I've had some shit before, but this is indescribable, and no one is coming to save me. No one can make this better.

I'm not sure how a person can sustain with agony like this, but I guess I'm going to find out what I am made of.

Over the past few days, I've had IV Dilaudid and as assload of opiates, but nothing touches this pain.

I can't sit, can't walk and can't lay down.

I refuse to take any more pain pills...they make me sicker than a dog.

I fell asleep in my recliner last night for 5 minutes, and immediately had a horrid "death" nightmare. Immediately.

Trying not to be hyperbolic, but it's a hard road when you realize you can't be helped.

What is scaring me is the relentlessness of this pain. How the fuck can you be loaded up on narcotics and the pain gets WORSE? This is nightmare fuel.

You all be good, and I'll hopefully see you soon if I can get this pain to retract.

I'm wishing for a natural, permanent sleep at this point.

Never been so fucking scared in my life.

You all be good, and hopefully, I'll see you soon.

116 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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I may be taking a break for a bit. (Original Post) LuckyCharms Tuesday OP
I'm so sorry. I hope you will keep us posted on how you are doing, though. Scrivener7 Tuesday #1
I'm so sorry. I hope you can get some relief. yardwork Tuesday #2
Take care we can do it Tuesday #3
I hate when my favorite people hurt. quaint Tuesday #4
I am so sorry, LuckyCharms. sheshe2 Tuesday #5
Sending you love and peace. PittBlue Tuesday #6
How horrible! redwitch Tuesday #7
Please take care Lucky and keep reaching out to us here if you're able. Diamond_Dog Tuesday #8
Thinking of you Marthe48 Tuesday #9
Hang in there, the world needs you. multigraincracker Tuesday #10
🫂 mwmisses4289 Tuesday #11
Oh Lucky, I hope you get some relief from the pain. debm55 Tuesday #12
LuckCharms... pdxflyboy Tuesday #13
I'm so sorry, LuckyCharns. I pray that you brer cat Tuesday #14
I am so sorry, my friend UpInArms Tuesday #15
I'm so sorry you're having to endure such pain. Lonestarblue Tuesday #16
Keeping you in my prayers irisblue Tuesday #17
Holding you in love and light, LC. Hope to see you soon. niyad Tuesday #18
So sorry. I wish I had any useful advice at all, but this is beyond my experience. eppur_se_muova Tuesday #19
Peace. Harker Tuesday #20
Hang in there my good friend; take time to heal; be well. NNadir Tuesday #21
Best wishes angrychair Tuesday #22
Have you tried Acupuncture? dickthegrouch Tuesday #23
I'm really sorry you're going through this LuckyCharms, JMCKUSICK Tuesday #24
Good luck JoseBalow Tuesday #25
I am so so sorry to hear this. Grumpy Old Guy Tuesday #26
I cannot imagine what you're going through. Fla Dem Tuesday #27
I'm so sorry! I just hope you can get some relief Ocelot II Tuesday #28
Thinking of you KS Toronado Tuesday #29
Crap!!!!! Reiki ?????? Karadeniz Tuesday #30
I know this doesn't help, murielm99 Tuesday #31
Sending love and healing vibes ms liberty Tuesday #32
Neuropathy Pain here yankee87 Tuesday #33
I'm so sorry!!! CaptainTruth Tuesday #34
Dearest Lucky, Niagara Tuesday #35
Holding you in my heart, LC. n/t TygrBright Tuesday #36
We love you, Lucky Charms. ZZenith Tuesday #37
oh no!!!! Well take care of yourself and dont give up... samnsara Tuesday #38
I'm so sorry about your pain LittleGirl Tuesday #39
I wouldn't be surprised if you've got nerve pain, which for me... Trueblue Texan Tuesday #40
LC, are you on Duloxetine? LudwigPastorius Tuesday #41
Take care. We understand your need for a break. sinkingfeeling Tuesday #42
I'm so sorry, LuckyCharms karin_sj Tuesday #43
Oh no LuckyCharms!! BComplex Tuesday #44
My heart goes out to you in this awful pain, my dear LuckyCharms . . . CaliforniaPeggy Tuesday #45
Sending strength and love democrank Tuesday #46
May Blessed Relief Come to You FrankTC Tuesday #47
Thank you for your words and share Mz.LadyRe22 Tuesday #48
Welcome to DU young lady! KS Toronado Tuesday #74
Have you had your ankle seen and cared for? vanlassie Yesterday #86
Wishing you a full recovery! I had a tri fractured ankle back in 2012. I gope you've been seen by someone!... electric_blue68 Yesterday #91
Welcome to DU, Mz.LadyRe22! calimary Yesterday #93
I am so very sorry, LuckyCharms Grim Chieftain Tuesday #49
So sorry, LC peggysue2 Tuesday #50
I'm so sorry to read about your suffering. The problem with narcotics for pain is how quickly you develop a tolerance Vinca Tuesday #51
I am so sorry you are struggling. pandr32 Tuesday #52
Sorry SuzyandPuffpuff Tuesday #53
That's a terrble thing to endure! I'm 72. When I was around 16 I had... electric_blue68 Yesterday #92
So sorry for the pain, Lucky Charms peacebuzzard Tuesday #54
Bless you, dear LuckyCharms FakeNoose Tuesday #55
I try to empathize, but I come up short Oeditpus Rex Tuesday #56
Healing vibes on the way to you, LC SheltieLover Tuesday #57
Gentle hugs BoomaofBandM Tuesday #58
I'm so terribly sorry you are going through this. SleeplessinSoCal Tuesday #59
Hugs and healing vibes to you. SunSeeker Tuesday #60
Hang in there LC! OAITW r.2.0 Tuesday #61
May Things Get Better for You Grumpy Old Woman Tuesday #62
Oh, God, LC, I'm so sorry. Sending healing vibes, but I also want to mention vitamin C, which can help highplainsdem Tuesday #63
Lucky, you know how I like to joke around True Dough Tuesday #64
I am so sorry you are in so much pain. rhiannon55 Tuesday #65
Woah, what a scary fall, rhiannon55!... electric_blue68 Yesterday #94
I'm so sorry you are going through this, Lucky Charms. Clouds Passing Tuesday #66
Hurry back my friend malaise Tuesday #67
Hope you and your doctors can find a solution for your pain. 70sEraVet Tuesday #68
So sorry for you, Lucky... MiHale Tuesday #69
This sounds just awful and unbearable. 1WorldHope Tuesday #70
Peace to you and yours, LuckyCharms. denbot Tuesday #71
Sending love markie Tuesday #72
Good grief! 2naSalit Tuesday #73
heartfelt best wishes to you Evolve Dammit Tuesday #75
I hope you are able to return to us soon. yellow dahlia Tuesday #76
Sending you healing prayers. I am so sorry you are going through this. You are a treasure here skylucy Tuesday #77
My heart is breaking for you synni Tuesday #78
Luck Charms stage left Tuesday #79
Horrific! I'm so sorry! I'm sure you have doctors attempting to diagnose the pain, but has this included... pat_k Tuesday #80
Call your doctor, Lucky. Get something so you can rest. Please. Just call. ASAP. I wish our love could ease your pain. ancianita Tuesday #81
Dear LC, I suffer from chronic pain, sometimes horribly, sometimes better. Coventina Tuesday #82
Sending healing vibes. Sogo Tuesday #83
I feel for you - last yr I fell on my back womanofthehills Tuesday #84
I am so very sorry, Lucky Charms. HeartsCanHope Yesterday #85
Oh no, I am so sorry. summer_in_TX Yesterday #87
I know pain first hand. Indescribable!!!!! BigmanPigman Yesterday #88
Have you tried hypnosis? mnhtnbb Yesterday #89
So Sorry, Lucky Charms! I hope either one or more of the suggestions offered start to give you some relief! electric_blue68 Yesterday #90
You come here often you hear. applegrove Yesterday #95
I'm so sorry, Lucky Charms ReRe Yesterday #96
So sorry for what you're having to endure. Words seem inadequate for such terrible pain, but chia Yesterday #97
Dear LuckyCharms gademocrat7 Yesterday #98
Update. LuckyCharms Yesterday #99
My cousin was on prednisone Marthe48 Yesterday #101
I am laughing! LuckyCharms Yesterday #102
They shared the blow by blow with me Marthe48 Yesterday #104
Marthe... LuckyCharms Yesterday #105
You and Mrs. Charms are the best! Marthe48 Yesterday #112
From my experience with prednisone, you will urinate like crazy irisblue Yesterday #107
Your doctor could also consider pregabalin Mosby Yesterday #108
That Pred push 😤 I'm so sorry. Sending ease your way Clouds Passing Yesterday #110
It's nasty business. LuckyCharms Yesterday #111
I've been on iv bags of the stuff. Makes you feel like you're going out of your mind. Clouds Passing Yesterday #114
.... Niagara Yesterday #113
Good luck!! electric_blue68 23 hrs ago #116
Sending you all my best vibes, LC. mobeau69 Yesterday #100
Peace and strength. LoisB Yesterday #103
Being in constant pain is the worst thing ever. greatauntoftriplets Yesterday #106
It keeps getting worse. LuckyCharms Yesterday #109
Hang in there! Csn you call an ambulance? electric_blue68 Yesterday #115

Scrivener7

(57,504 posts)
1. I'm so sorry. I hope you will keep us posted on how you are doing, though.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 08:41 AM
Tuesday

I am wishing for relief for you.

PittBlue

(4,656 posts)
6. Sending you love and peace.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 09:00 AM
Tuesday

So sad that you are enduring so much pain. I hope you can find relief.

Diamond_Dog

(38,822 posts)
8. Please take care Lucky and keep reaching out to us here if you're able.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 09:05 AM
Tuesday

We’ll all be sending light speed karma to you for pain relief. It sounds dreadful.

Marthe48

(22,121 posts)
9. Thinking of you
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 09:11 AM
Tuesday

And sending prayers. In Ohio, there used to be clinics that treated intractible pain. Maybe you can get to a place like that.

You don't deserve this.

multigraincracker

(36,562 posts)
10. Hang in there, the world needs you.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 09:12 AM
Tuesday

Just a suggestion, It's free and has worked for others.

You can google it for pain. CBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for pain. It's free and has helped many with science backed results.
You may not get instant complete results, but might some help in easing your symptoms and ways to deal with it.

Peace and Love Brother.

Lonestarblue

(13,010 posts)
16. I'm so sorry you're having to endure such pain.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 09:38 AM
Tuesday

I hope your doctors can find something soon to help you. I’m sure you’ve already tried everything, but maybe medical marijuana would help. Let us know how you’re doing when you feel able.

eppur_se_muova

(40,382 posts)
19. So sorry. I wish I had any useful advice at all, but this is beyond my experience.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 09:55 AM
Tuesday

If your docs haven't mentioned a nerve block, raise the subject and demand answers. I would think they would have discussed this with you already, but if they haven't, maybe you need to force the issue.

NNadir

(36,785 posts)
21. Hang in there my good friend; take time to heal; be well.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 09:59 AM
Tuesday

You are valued and appreciated here.

dickthegrouch

(4,136 posts)
23. Have you tried Acupuncture?
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:04 AM
Tuesday

I found it very helpful after just one visit. YMMV

Very sorry you’re going through that.

JMCKUSICK

(4,283 posts)
24. I'm really sorry you're going through this LuckyCharms,
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:08 AM
Tuesday

It's so hard living in not just pain, but debilitating, crippling pain that people can't see, much less help.
Please find a position that gives you some comfort.
Forgive me if I should already know, but is there a diagnosis? Is this muscular or skeletal?
Please know there are among us those who understand.
I hope you find relief LuckyCharms, as so many have stated before me, you are treasured here.

Fla Dem

(27,220 posts)
27. I cannot imagine what you're going through.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:10 AM
Tuesday

I hope you have family/friends who are close to you and can care for you as you're going through all this.

Please, peace be with you LuckyCharms.

Ocelot II

(127,895 posts)
28. I'm so sorry! I just hope you can get some relief
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:12 AM
Tuesday

and you have people with you who will help and support you.

yankee87

(2,707 posts)
33. Neuropathy Pain here
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:23 AM
Tuesday

I don't know what you are going through, but I'm dealing with the pain of neuropathy every day. There is no cure, and I use marijuana to get me to sleep. I think about ending it all daily. Only reason I don't is my family and pets.
I hope that you find a cure or some help soon.

Niagara

(10,951 posts)
35. Dearest Lucky,
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:25 AM
Tuesday

I'm sorry that you're in a bad way and suffering needlessly from pain that never stops.


You take care of yourself and take all the time that you need for a break.


Please know that you have an entire DU community that wishes only good and manageable things for you.

You're a treasure here. You've always been reasonable, kind and helpful. I'm not sure if anyone has told you that before but I am saying it now.

I hope that you feel better sooner than later.

samnsara

(18,659 posts)
38. oh no!!!! Well take care of yourself and dont give up...
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:32 AM
Tuesday

..a cpl years ago i hurt my back lifting up my old sick 100 pound dog. Couldnt go to dr cuz no one to drive me..i couldnt walk and i couldnt leave my old sick dog alone. I did tequila shots...a LOT of them. An hour apart so I wouldnt get too looney to help my old sick heavy dog. By the time my stomach started complaining, the back pain eased. I even looked into self hypnosis. And at night i smoked a lot of pot.

Narcotics make me throw up so I was doing anything to keep away from them....

Please just dont give up! ( we need you!)

LittleGirl

(8,855 posts)
39. I'm so sorry about your pain
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:34 AM
Tuesday

I can't take opioids either. If I do, I get nauseous and the pain is still there. I will throw up a pill.

When I had a couple of surgeries since 2020, I was given a spinal block for the surgery which was great. No hang over from the drugs. But the recovery time was awful with pain.

I'm so sorry. I had to end up taking Tylenol for the pain and it took me a couple of years to recover from my torn tendon surgery on my right shoulder. Ouch.

I'm one of those that gets really angry when I'm in pain. I got that way during my covid infection.

I'll be thinking of you. Cyber hugs.

Trueblue Texan

(3,906 posts)
40. I wouldn't be surprised if you've got nerve pain, which for me...
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:38 AM
Tuesday

...opiates, nor any other pain med could ever touch. The only thing that helped was a very strong does of CBD oil or sitting in a pool of water. The pain was still there, but not as bad. The doctors need to address your pain though. They cannot just ignore it, that's malpractice.

LudwigPastorius

(13,646 posts)
41. LC, are you on Duloxetine?
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:43 AM
Tuesday

I’m on it for chronic trigeminal nerve pain, and it has helped (in conjunction with some other drugs).

Some days I think it doesn’t so much stop the pain as keeps me from offing myself because of it. But, I’ll take what I can get at this point.

Wishing you relief, brother. If you can’t take it day by day, try to take it hour by hour.

karin_sj

(1,268 posts)
43. I'm so sorry, LuckyCharms
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:47 AM
Tuesday

I hope with all my heart that you can find some relief from this relentless pain very very soon. I hope you feel the love from your DU family.

BComplex

(9,652 posts)
44. Oh no LuckyCharms!!
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:48 AM
Tuesday

So sorry to hear this!! There is so much doctors have yet to learn about the human body, and most especially, pain management. I hope something happens that helps you get to a more comfortable state really soon.

We love you!

CaliforniaPeggy

(155,463 posts)
45. My heart goes out to you in this awful pain, my dear LuckyCharms . . .
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:48 AM
Tuesday

You're in my thoughts. May you soon have relief.

FrankTC

(254 posts)
47. May Blessed Relief Come to You
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:59 AM
Tuesday

I'm not going to suggest any solutions, as probably anything I can think of you've already thought of, and probably you've tried everything possible to get relief. Pain is one of the most productive of adversities in that way. I hope you are able to endure long enough to get effective help, and that it arrives soon.

Mz.LadyRe22

(1 post)
48. Thank you for your words and share
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 11:07 AM
Tuesday

Hello. Thank you for your words. Because of your recent post I have finally had the courage to come on this wonderful site for the first time and post my own comment……I have been here for years …….daily even (multiple daily visits) but just never “spoke”.

But this morning I read your words and I felt such deep compassion and care for you……understanding your struggle right now…..reading your words moved Me so much. Your pain, your struggles.

You see, I have been in bed since Friday night, with a broken ankle……immobile to do the most simple of actions…..and I, too, have been in one big “scared” miserable state. I’m a 67 year woman, retired, never had to rely on anyone…until now……and I just can not get out of bed (no matter how much I try to push through the pain) to do my most simplistic routine. I’m not in as pain as you describe, I am so so sorry yo are suffering , but I too Am frightened, of the “Now what” doom……...hahahaha “is this the way I go out?” I laugh to myself. I feel your words.

So as I read your comments, I feel encouraged to push through……….Thank you for such honest raw feelings shared……my friend…..yes being vulnerable and in pain sucks……but please Know this ~you HELPED ME today…….if you can share the difficulties you are now facing with medical conditions……than I can too……..

Stay strong (I will too)….and thank you for letting me be apart of your painful journey. I promise to be more active here, in this community. I need a community, this incredible group of personalities……..fantastic readings throughout the years of “my lurking “. Glad to be here now.

You and your words helped Me so very much……..so to you I also say Stay strong, because this community Needs you! Thank you………You are in my prayers today, most certainly!

electric_blue68

(24,484 posts)
91. Wishing you a full recovery! I had a tri fractured ankle back in 2012. I gope you've been seen by someone!...
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 02:10 AM
Yesterday

I've had two major accidents. The above, and ripped rotator cuff muscles 20 yrs before the ankle.

When you are well enough to start rehab exercises my lived advice is do them like 96% - 97% of the time. So there's a little leeway when you absolutely don't want to do them. Otherwise do them steadily, completly, and you'll probably have good to excellent results.
I was 59 when this ankle thing happened. You'd never know I'd injured myself!
Good Luck!!!

calimary

(88,197 posts)
93. Welcome to DU, Mz.LadyRe22!
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 02:26 AM
Yesterday

Hello back atcha! We’re very happy that you’ve joined us, and that you finally took “the big leap” and spoke up!

This community is a Godsend for so many of us! You’ll come here and maybe you’ll just read the posts and comments, but you’ll also gain tremendously, in so many ways! And you’re liable to build plenty of new friends and allies, even though you may never actually meet any of them face-to-face. And as our beloved Skittles once said, “someone’s always here.”

People come aboard from every imaginable location and vocation, and bring SOOOOOOOOO much wisdom and perspective with them, which is tremendously valuable, and helpful, in too many ways to count. I swear - I learn something new every day!

Welcome! Glad you’re here!

Grim Chieftain

(757 posts)
49. I am so very sorry, LuckyCharms
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 11:17 AM
Tuesday

Please know you are in my thoughts and yes, even prayers. Take care.

peggysue2

(12,242 posts)
50. So sorry, LC
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 11:17 AM
Tuesday

Nothing worse than unrelenting pain. This sounds horrid. Can you request a palliative care specialist to address the acute pain? Anything to relieve the suffering. I hope you have someone there to advocate for you. Please know we're all thinking about you and sending our best vibes, prayers.

Vinca

(52,892 posts)
51. I'm so sorry to read about your suffering. The problem with narcotics for pain is how quickly you develop a tolerance
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 11:23 AM
Tuesday

for them. Wish I had the answer for you, and I really hope things improve. Take care.

pandr32

(13,564 posts)
52. I am so sorry you are struggling.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 11:30 AM
Tuesday

Pain is hard to ignore, so I have no idea how you will cope without the drugs, or what is your situation.
I hope you will be able to get better sleep without the nightmares. You must be exhausted.
Hugs.

SuzyandPuffpuff

(324 posts)
53. Sorry
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 11:32 AM
Tuesday

Have lived with unrelenting pain all my life. Migraines. I understand your agony. All Yu can do is focus on pain. It consumes you. Sometimes I want to die and other times scared that I will. It's a terrible cycle. Breathe in. Hold. Breathe out. Sometimes that's all I can do. Good luck my dear friend.

electric_blue68

(24,484 posts)
92. That's a terrble thing to endure! I'm 72. When I was around 16 I had...
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 02:20 AM
Yesterday

a single migraine triggered later on by a particular type of medical examination.
Only one, and I still remember it 56 yrs later, if something prompts the memory.

I hope you will get some relief from some new treatment sooner than later!

peacebuzzard

(5,695 posts)
54. So sorry for the pain, Lucky Charms
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 11:35 AM
Tuesday

I will keep thinking of you and hoping for better news….
I can’t imagine this high level of pain as you describe; with no sleep….Please take care of yourself; you are a gem indeed.

FakeNoose

(39,106 posts)
55. Bless you, dear LuckyCharms
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 11:37 AM
Tuesday

Here's hoping your doctor will have a remedy for you. This pain sounds unbearable, for now.
Maybe a good night's sleep will help too. Hope you're feeling better soon.

Oeditpus Rex

(43,048 posts)
56. I try to empathize, but I come up short
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 12:01 PM
Tuesday

I mean, I have pain in my legs and low back/pelvic area anout half the time, but not anything like you describe. I imagine you've had MRIs and all that, and they've found nothing that could be a cause?

I dunno, man... cannabis helped my partner when she had endometriosis, but she had to smoke several times a day to get relief. Frequent acupuncture could help if it's neuropathic pain. That's all I've got, except for Eastern remedies, and I know almost nothing about those.

There's got to be something, man. Pain has a cause, and a cause has a fix. The problem is finding one, and then the other.

Be as well as possible.

BoomaofBandM

(1,930 posts)
58. Gentle hugs
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 01:15 PM
Tuesday

I live in my recliner, comfee lounge wear with a rectangular heating pad always at hand. I get lost in my world of books and sleep whenever and however I can. I hope they find something to help you.

SleeplessinSoCal

(10,310 posts)
59. I'm so terribly sorry you are going through this.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 01:16 PM
Tuesday

Hypnosis? Something from the alternative medicine community maybe?

I hope you get help soon.

OAITW r.2.0

(30,798 posts)
61. Hang in there LC!
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 01:18 PM
Tuesday

I can't imagine that level of pain. My trip to the ER yesterday was for another embedded tick. A big nothing compared to what you are dealing with. Get healthy, my friend.

Grumpy Old Woman

(39 posts)
62. May Things Get Better for You
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 02:04 PM
Tuesday

These days 'thoughts and prayers' are overworked, but know that I have enjoyed your posts and hope that you will again be able to make them. Take care of yourself.

highplainsdem

(58,741 posts)
63. Oh, God, LC, I'm so sorry. Sending healing vibes, but I also want to mention vitamin C, which can help
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 02:14 PM
Tuesday

with pain.

Google it:

vitamin c pain relief

I have no idea if you're taking any vitamin C now. In my experience, which includes years of caregiving, doctors will rarely if ever mention supplements and will say fairly little about diet. My mom had a good GP and cardiologist who okayed the supplements she took and made sure she got them even when hospitalized, and gave me their cell phone numbers in case I ran into a doctor at a hospital who wouldn't listen.

Some people can't tolerate vitamin C, and there might be other reasons you in particular shouldn't take it. Check with your doctor.

But in general it's a safe and effective way to get some pain relief for many conditions.

True Dough

(24,818 posts)
64. Lucky, you know how I like to joke around
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 02:32 PM
Tuesday

but you're making it awfully hard!

Peace, love and pain relief is all I want for you, brother. Hoping for a positive update sometime soon.

rhiannon55

(2,755 posts)
65. I am so sorry you are in so much pain.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 02:38 PM
Tuesday

I can’t imagine not being able to walk, sit, or lie down. There aren’t many positions left. Do you have someone to help you? If not, please call a close friend or family member, or a hospital social worker for help. I imagine you have already worked that out, but I have been dealing with pain myself, so “help” is at the top of my mind right now.

I broke my left elbow a week ago today and had surgery yesterday morning. I am 74, and I missed a step down and fell hard on a concrete floor. I had been facing forward, but somehow I fell on my back and left arm; it felt like all my body weight landed on my elbow. I broke my ulna an inch or so below the olecranon (this accident is growing my vocabulary!) The surgeon had to reconnect the bone with a screw. I woke up with a pain blocker in my arm and hand. It was so weird; I couldn’t feel or move my arm or hand at all. Who knew our arms were so heavy? Well, there’s also the cast. 🙄
Luckily, I have a sling to hold my arm up, so I’ve only experienced this the couple of times my arm was out of the sling and just hanging there until I lifted it up with my right hand. I felt no pain, though.

Until this morning. Oh man, my arm hurts, and you’re right. Opiates don’t help much. Here’s what’s helping me right now: cannabis. I stopped smoking a while back because I needed to see if my short-term memory got better (my mom had dementia). I got out my pipe and filled it and a couple of hits later, it has taken the edge off the pain. I still feel it, but I’m no longer focused on it. I can think better right now.

I apologize if I’m telling you things you already know. And I’m not comparing my arm pain to what sounds like full body pain. I am just getting a taste of what you’re going through. I just feel so much empathy for you and I’m hoping my response helps even a little bit. I’m sending a one-armed cyber hug! Please stay in touch.

💗💗💗💗💗

electric_blue68

(24,484 posts)
94. Woah, what a scary fall, rhiannon55!...
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 02:41 AM
Yesterday

May you have a full recovery in time, as well!

I just give this advice elsewhere.
I've had two major accidents. Ripped rotator cuff muscles (arm just hanging down, can't lift it - weird!). Had the sling.

Then at 59 a tri-fractured ankle (yeah, I got metal). When you're ready for rehab exercises; you can slack off a wee bit, like 3% - 4% for when absolutely don't want to do them. Otherwise do them 96% - 97% steadily, completely, and your recovery should be good to excellent!. You'd never know I had an accident.

Keep us posted. Good luck! {hug}

Clouds Passing

(6,256 posts)
66. I'm so sorry you are going through this, Lucky Charms.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 02:51 PM
Tuesday


I’ve been where you are. Dark night of the Soul. The pain is relentless and indescribable.

70sEraVet

(5,024 posts)
68. Hope you and your doctors can find a solution for your pain.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 03:07 PM
Tuesday

No one should have to live in agony.

1WorldHope

(1,728 posts)
70. This sounds just awful and unbearable.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 03:58 PM
Tuesday

It is so helpful to have someone advocate for you. If you don't have anyone, then a phone call can be made from any where in the US with you on the line. If you have nobody to help, then ask one of us to be your advocate on the phone. Don't suffer alone. I am here if you need me Lucky ❤️.

2naSalit

(98,326 posts)
73. Good grief!
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 05:54 PM
Tuesday

Dear LuckyCharms, I feel for you. I have bad back pain but not like you describe. Mine gives me horrible headaches and disrupts my digestive system for days but it nothing like you describe. I sure hope you can find something. I don't recall the nature of your issue but it sounds awful. My thing is just my spine disintegrating, eventually I'll be paralyzed if I don't die first...

I rely on natural remedies most of the time but I need pharma help once in a while, I hope you find something, anything - almost - to relieve your pain.

skylucy

(3,991 posts)
77. Sending you healing prayers. I am so sorry you are going through this. You are a treasure here
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 07:08 PM
Tuesday

on DU, so I hope you are back soon.

synni

(596 posts)
78. My heart is breaking for you
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 07:24 PM
Tuesday

I can't imagine the indescribable horror you must be going through.

"Wishing you the best" sounds so weak in the face of this, but it's all I can do.

stage left

(3,149 posts)
79. Luck Charms
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 08:12 PM
Tuesday

I was scrolling here and I saw your post. I am so terribly sorry you're suffering. Hoping that your pain will relent and you will be able to sleep.

pat_k

(12,117 posts)
80. Horrific! I'm so sorry! I'm sure you have doctors attempting to diagnose the pain, but has this included...
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 08:34 PM
Tuesday

... specialists in rheumatology?? I can attest personally to how unbearable the pain of inflammatory disease can be.

As I posted to your thread earlier this month:

----------
Although gradual onset of Rheumatoid Arthritis is common, there are cases of "explosive" onset in "non-traditional" larger joints that can come on fast and resolve fast. There are also other inflammatory diseases that need to be investigated when a person is struck down with pain.

AI summary of various Rheumatoid presentations and mimics.

While classic rheumatoid arthritis (RA) typically has a gradual onset, sudden or acute onset is possible, especially in older adults. Other conditions, including reactive arthritis and palindromic rheumatism, can also cause sudden joint pain and are often mistaken for RA. I sure hope so, but in case not, I highly recommend you insist on a referral.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

Although RA usually develops slowly over several weeks to months, an explosive polyarticular onset, with pain and swelling in multiple joints over 24 to 48 hours, is possible.

Acute-onset RA: Some cases, especially in older adults, can appear suddenly and intensely, often affecting larger, more proximal joints like the knees and shoulders.

Widespread symptoms: Along with joint pain and swelling, sudden-onset RA can also cause flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, fever, and a general feeling of being unwell.

Palindromic rheumatism (PR)

This rare form of inflammatory arthritis is characterized by sudden, recurrent attacks of painful swelling in one or more joints.

Rapid onset and resolution: Attacks begin and end quickly, lasting anywhere from a few hours to several days.

Between attacks: Joints appear and feel normal, with no lasting damage.

Progression to RA: While PR is distinct from RA, it's considered an autoimmune-related disease, and up to 50% of people with PR may later develop RA.

Reactive arthritis

This is an autoimmune response that can cause sudden-onset inflammatory arthritis after a bacterial infection.

Triggering infections: Common triggers include gastrointestinal infections (like food poisoning), sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Typical joints: Pain and stiffness most often affect the knees, ankles, feet, and heels.

Additional symptoms: Eye inflammation (conjunctivitis) and urinary problems are also common.

Seronegative spondyloarthropathies

This group of conditions can be difficult to differentiate from RA, particularly if they appear suddenly.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA): This can cause joint pain and stiffness that mimics RA. Distinctive symptoms that might differentiate PsA include sausage-like swelling of fingers or toes (dactylitis), nail changes, and lower back pain.

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS): Though primarily affecting the spine, AS can also cause pain and stiffness in the pelvis.

Other mimics

Several other conditions can present with sudden, widespread joint pain that may be mistaken for RA:

Viral arthritis: Viruses like parvovirus B19 or Chikungunya can cause acute, multi-joint pain. Symptoms usually resolve once the infection clears.

Lyme disease: This tick-borne illness can cause widespread joint pain and other symptoms similar to RA. Unlike RA, the pain can shift from joint to joint, and it is usually responsive to antibiotics.

Whipple's disease: This rare bacterial infection can cause arthritis that mimics RA, especially in seronegative patients. [/excerpt

The above is not comprehensive, but if your physician is not having these possibilities investigated, you may need to demand that they do.

Other things to investigate that don't fall into the inflammatory disease category: spinal stenosis, degenerative disk disease, or a more acute issue like spinal cord compression or transverse myelitis.

ancianita

(42,348 posts)
81. Call your doctor, Lucky. Get something so you can rest. Please. Just call. ASAP. I wish our love could ease your pain.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 08:51 PM
Tuesday

Coventina

(28,834 posts)
82. Dear LC, I suffer from chronic pain, sometimes horribly, sometimes better.
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 08:51 PM
Tuesday

I have no real advice or words of wisdom.

I can only say: You are not alone.
Also: You will always have a home here at DU.
Please don't pull away because you feel like a drain. Only take time away because you believe it will help you.

womanofthehills

(10,512 posts)
84. I feel for you - last yr I fell on my back
Tue Oct 21, 2025, 10:25 PM
Tuesday

I was in bad pain for 3 months. Friend brought me some Advil 800 ‘s - they made a huge difference

My friend with MS uses a combo of cannabis & Valium for nerve pain plus LDN (low dose naltrexone). Lots of those with chronic pain trying LDN. Lots of LDN forums on web at Facebook , Reddit etc. An average dose of naltrexone is 50 mg but compounding pharmacies make 1.5 to 4.5 - tiny doses. This tiny dose can increase endorphins & cut inflammation.

On Amazon, you can buy ice pack clothing for your back.

HeartsCanHope

(1,365 posts)
85. I am so very sorry, Lucky Charms.
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 12:05 AM
Yesterday

You are in my thoughts, and I hope that something can be done to help you get some relief.

summer_in_TX

(3,878 posts)
87. Oh no, I am so sorry.
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 12:51 AM
Yesterday

I have added you to my daily prayers for relief from this pain and for healing. ❤️‍🩹🙏

BigmanPigman

(54,162 posts)
88. I know pain first hand. Indescribable!!!!!
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 01:26 AM
Yesterday

Anything to relieve it for a nano second is what I crave. You can NOT do ANYTHING!!!!

No one knows how horrible it is since there are NO WORDS. It is shear torture. Forget about doing anything or focusing on anything since you CAN NOT!!!!!

You can not function at all!!!

Forget about thinking, eating, sleeping, even breathing. It is impossible to do anything but wish it would stop and how you can somehow make it stop.

I know!!!!! You want to make it stop so much you consider suicide. That is normal!!! That is how awful it is.

I have more than empathy, I wish I could make it end. I'm almost in tears since I know your situation too well.

mnhtnbb

(32,935 posts)
89. Have you tried hypnosis?
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 01:36 AM
Yesterday


Link to article from Stanford

https://med.stanford.edu/news/insights/2023/04/how-hypnosis-can-alter-the-brains-perception-of-pain.html

I am really sorry you are not getting any relief with pain meds. It must be scary as hell. Hope that you will find some relief with something, soon.

electric_blue68

(24,484 posts)
90. So Sorry, Lucky Charms! I hope either one or more of the suggestions offered start to give you some relief!
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 01:53 AM
Yesterday

Or some other solution not thought of yet. Truly sounds terrifying!
Hang in there, you are appreciated, and loved.

)))Healing vibes((( for pain relief sent your way.
And for *Deep* sleep, FREE From Nightmares!!!

ReRe

(12,113 posts)
96. I'm so sorry, Lucky Charms
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 05:28 AM
Yesterday
I would trade places with you if I could.

Hope something can be done to stop your pain soon.

chia

(2,689 posts)
97. So sorry for what you're having to endure. Words seem inadequate for such terrible pain, but
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 06:13 AM
Yesterday

I hope the doctors are able to give you the relief you need. ❤️

LuckyCharms

(20,940 posts)
99. Update.
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 08:13 AM
Yesterday

You people are almost bringing me to tears and I don't know what to say besides thank you, and for those of you in pain, I wish I could hug you in person.

So thank you for all of your responses.

I called my primary care yesterday, and the conversation got a little heated.

I'm sure that most of you know that when the shit hits the fan, you are sometimes passed around to different specialists like a hot potato. And you are sometimes treated dismissively when trying to get medical professionals to understand what you are going through.

I am suicidal. But I would never act on it. I have people and a dog who need me, and I wouldn't let them down.

This is not something you can tell a medical professional, because the only solution they have is to lock you up on the mental floor for 3 days instead of addressing the cause of your pain.

I was told to go back to the ER. My response was "That's not fucking good enough. You're my primary care, I've been seeing you for decades, and you need to help me".

I told my primary care that I believe this is diabetic neuropathy in my back and hips. If you have ever had gout, it feels like that. Only it's in my back and pelvis. The pain is exquisite.

I'm now on an extremely high dosage of an oral Prednisone burst for 5 days. This is the second day for the burst. She also put me on Gabapentin 3X daily, permanently. The problem with Prednisone is that it shoots your blood glucose up horrendously. As I type this, my glucose is in the 400's, when it should be at 120. I'm shooting copious amounts of insulin to try to counteract this, but it's not working well against the steroids. This why why the ER doc only gave me one dose of steroids, and refused to prescribe a further steroid dose. He didn't want to be responsible for me going into a diabetic coma. He told me to talk to my primary care about steroid treatment. So that's what I did and she put me on the Prednisone therapy and told me to tough out the high glucose for 5 days.

Prednisone turns me into caveman mode. After only one day on it so far, I'm an irritable mess who can't stop eating. It's like having the pot munchies times 100.

I feel like I could murder someone when I'm on Prednisone. It's horrible. But it usually works, so we'll see what happens.

I'm so worried about my wife. She's trying to wait on me, even though she knows I don't like that. She's trying to be helpful, but I'm right on the head on a pin emotionally, and I'm afraid I'm going to snap at her. I don't want to do that. She's trying to help me, but she's scared as well...

Thank you for all of your touching responses.

Marthe48

(22,121 posts)
101. My cousin was on prednisone
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 08:49 AM
Yesterday

She and her husband got into a heated fight because he had eaten a piece of leftover steak she thought was hers. They lived to tell about it. (Story is true, and I hope you smiled)

Ease your pain. My mom and sister were both on gabapentin for chronic pain. Hope it does some good.

Marthe48

(22,121 posts)
104. They shared the blow by blow with me
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 09:08 AM
Yesterday

They've been married for over 40 years, and they still act like a couple on The Newlyweds. Lol

LuckyCharms

(20,940 posts)
105. Marthe...
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 09:12 AM
Yesterday

I was trying to hug her while yelling at her at the same time this morning.

I kept saying "I'm sorry, it's not you"! It's the drugs"!

She said "Doesn't matter, you're a fucking asshole either way"!

Then we hugged.

irisblue

(36,328 posts)
107. From my experience with prednisone, you will urinate like crazy
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 10:10 AM
Yesterday

And be very hungry. Wishing you the best dear one

Mosby

(19,134 posts)
108. Your doctor could also consider pregabalin
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 10:25 AM
Yesterday

It worked better than gabapentin for me, but I had to stop because I couldn't handle the dizziness. Everyone's different though with these drugs. Hope you feel better soon.

LuckyCharms

(20,940 posts)
111. It's nasty business.
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 10:40 AM
Yesterday

Sounds like you have had that as well. I'm so sorry. It's the worst.

I wish she had done a taper instead of a burst.

Niagara

(10,951 posts)
113. ....
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 04:20 PM
Yesterday
"That's not fucking good enough. You're my primary care, I've been seeing you for decades, and you need to help me".



Good for you for standing up for yourself, Lucky. I'm still helluva sorry that you have to endure any of this.

mobeau69

(12,151 posts)
100. Sending you all my best vibes, LC.
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 08:37 AM
Yesterday

Maybe you should seek care with different doctors. I believe that doctors from major hospitals that are associated with major university medical schools are at the top of their fields. A place like Vanderbilt in Nashville or Methodist (IU) in Indianapolis is where I would seek help. Godspeed, my friend.

LuckyCharms

(20,940 posts)
109. It keeps getting worse.
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 10:31 AM
Yesterday

I don't think I'm going to make it.

I can't even describe what this is.

I have no idea what to do.

I'm standing here posting...I don't know what to do.

Trying to distract.

electric_blue68

(24,484 posts)
115. Hang in there! Csn you call an ambulance?
Wed Oct 22, 2025, 05:42 PM
Yesterday

Last edited Wed Oct 22, 2025, 11:46 PM - Edit history (1)

ETA: ah, I just saw your update! 11:43PM.

Good Luck with the ?Prednisone burst and the glucose issue. Hoping the pain really diminishes! If not gone completely.

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