HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Suggest Treatment For Chronic Back Pain And Spinal Stenosis

default
Posted on Thu, 4 Sep 2014
Question: I currently take a fentanyl patch 50mcg, Mobic 7.5mg qd, Cymbalta 30 mg qd, Percocet 10/325 4 times daily. This is for spinal stenosis, post laminectomy, chronic back pain. I have not had much relief. My doctor has not wanted to increase any of my narcotics, saying its too much. He does not seem to understand that my pain is unbearable. I need meds to work or I cannot make ends meet. Do you think I could take something additional or take more Percocet?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Try alternatives, no more increase in dosage

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for asking
I am sorry to say but your doctor is right. You are already on a lot of heavy pain killers and increasing the dose any further would be poisoning.
On the other hand i understand the pain and trouble associated with spinal stenosis despite postlaminectomy.
There are many other than medications way to help the pain which one tried can help the medications work better or reduce their need. avoid aggravating factors, such as excessive lumbar extension and downhill ambulation. Additionally, you should be instructed on correct posture and should also receive instructions concerning a home exercise program (eg, flexion-biased lumbar stabilization, flexibility training, gluteal strengthening, aerobic conditioning). And for all that you need a good physiotherapist.
You can also discuss epidural steroid injections with your doctor and i believe it will help.
Nut shell, physiotherapy and ESI are the possible alternatives to the increment in dosage of already peaked dosed medications.
I hope it helps. Take good care of yourself and dont forget to close the discussion please.
May the odds be ever in your favour.
Regards
Khan
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2012

Answered : 3613 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Suggest Treatment For Chronic Back Pain And Spinal Stenosis

Brief Answer: Try alternatives, no more increase in dosage Detailed Answer: Thank you for asking I am sorry to say but your doctor is right. You are already on a lot of heavy pain killers and increasing the dose any further would be poisoning. On the other hand i understand the pain and trouble associated with spinal stenosis despite postlaminectomy. There are many other than medications way to help the pain which one tried can help the medications work better or reduce their need. avoid aggravating factors, such as excessive lumbar extension and downhill ambulation. Additionally, you should be instructed on correct posture and should also receive instructions concerning a home exercise program (eg, flexion-biased lumbar stabilization, flexibility training, gluteal strengthening, aerobic conditioning). And for all that you need a good physiotherapist. You can also discuss epidural steroid injections with your doctor and i believe it will help. Nut shell, physiotherapy and ESI are the possible alternatives to the increment in dosage of already peaked dosed medications. I hope it helps. Take good care of yourself and dont forget to close the discussion please. May the odds be ever in your favour. Regards Khan