Medication

 My GP referred me on the choose and book system to a specialist in London.

 I have had this syndrome for 2 and half years and it takes some getting used to. Eventually I gave in and tried medication that were suggested because the pain is relentless. I experimented with dosages, time I take them, combinations.

I take paracetamol quite regularly because I do find it takes the edge off if I need to. The thing with the medication is that it means I can function. It also means I can do activities and exercises to try to avoid more problems such as muscle wasting, compensation of other body parts, becoming unfit, losing stamina, losing friends and stopping enjoyable activities. I have tried to gradually decrease the dosage of tablets and tried different ones and then I realised how much they do actually help! As I say at the moment the combination of medication I take works and I can cope with the side effects. It's a balancing act!

Of course everyone is different. Other people I know take different combinations and dosages etc of medication that works for them. There are other pain relief options such as patches you wear, injections, tens machine - all sorts of stuff.

The thing with the Pain Management Centre is that is what they do! They understand and give all sorts of help: meditation, exercises, knowledge, treatments and self management techniques. It helped me to feel reassured and to start getting my head round it. Even if it's just talking about it with someone who understands and probably can help.

I saw so many specialists before I started to get help, it's frustrating. I feel I've learnt quite a lot since this all started and love to share it! I'm going to the hospital next Tuesday so I'll let you know if I learn anything new to share.

Best Wishes