I'd like to see some of these snippy jackasses we have to deal with - get something like this. They'd be singing a different tune and perhaps more of the medical profession would learn a little something about compassion.

My neurosurgeon has actually had 2 spine surgeries himself!

I'm sorry you are having trouble getting refills on your pain medication. Was your surgery in 2010? Most surgeons only prescribe medications for a few months post op then refer you to a pain doc. Maybe it would be better to go to a pain doc. Especially because you are only getting a little pain relief.

Good luck I hope you get relief.

Mouse, I feel the same way. It has made me more compassionate for people who have "problems" that I really don't understand. Donnabe, that is going to be my conversation at my next appointment. I am crazy about the doc but the helpers are so hard to get to understand. His office did call this morning and said the doc said it would be okay so I will pick them up tomorrow. Thanks for the ideas ...Traci

Mouse, I feel the same way. It has made me more compassionate for people who have "problems" that I really don't understand. Donnabe, that is going to be my conversation at my next appointment. I am crazy about the doc but the helpers are so hard to get to understand. His office did call this morning and said the doc said it would be okay so I will pick them up tomorrow. Thanks for the ideas ...Traci

I'd say new doctor time too. I have found that surgeons have a quota to fill. I was actually told this by a doctor! If they can't get you in surgery, they're not making their quota off you, which directly relates to how much money they make. Surgery is where it's at for them. I switched, quickly, to a pain management specialist (anesthesiologist) and have never had to look back. Of course, I got super lucky to find him so fast, but you just have to keep looking. Chronic pain is so personal, I just don't think some doctors or nurses really get that.