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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

PAIN

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Gillette, WY

Its been a while since I've posted but here goes
I'm in the middle of a flare that has been reoccurring since June the pain is terrible its reached a 10! Now my question is, how do I get the doctors to listen to me when I speak with them about my pain? I have tried to no avail to get them to help me with my pain which has started effecting my sleep, I also spend a lot of time crying, and I can't even care for my home because it hurts to get out of bed... I'm on a triple treatment plan which… read more

November 3, 2017
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around someone struggling with severe flare pain and difficulty getting doctors to listen, sharing strategies for advocating... Read more

Members rallied around someone struggling with severe flare pain and difficulty getting doctors to listen, sharing strategies for advocating more assertively including switching specialists, explicitly telling doctors the pain is unbearable and demanding help, and having a primary care physician refer to pain management when a rheumatologist won't. Several members described their own pain management approaches, mentioning medications like tramadol, Celebrex, and Voltaren, the importance of taking pain medication regularly rather than waiting for pain to spike, and acknowledging that finding the right biologic often requires trying multiple options over time. A recurring theme was persistence and self-advocacy, with members celebrating when the original poster finally secured tramadol, a referral to pain management, and an appointment with a permanent rheumatologist after pushing back against the system.

A myRAteam Member

Find a pain management clinic they can give you pain medication I have to go to one and they work well with me and they also give epidurals for my neck

November 9, 2017
A myRAteam Member

I wonder if they care or even know what people are going through. I ensure I take my pain pills regularly, not when I feel the pain. Pain management is very important if you want to get on through the day or night. Warm hugs for you

November 7, 2017
A myRAteam Member

Your pcp can refer you to any Dr they think necessary for your treatment. If you have a better relationship with them. I would discuss it with them. The rheumatologist is only another Dr who can refer. If your pcp thinks you need one and sends out all the paperwork they can get the referral too.

November 6, 2017
A myRAteam Member

IF your rheumy is not listening, then it's time to find a new rheumy. Obviously the meds that you are currently taking are not doing the job. Ask them to do a VECTRA blood test.

November 4, 2017
A myRAteam Member

My methotrexate pills were not sufficient, so I am now taking an injection each week. Much better in my case. It may also be the humira that is not working for you. It does take time to get up to par but I have swtched thru 6 or so before reaching the one that is working for me. Think about switching specialist. I now drive 2 hours once a month to get my infusion. My doc is great! You owe it to yourself to help yourself. Prayers for you.

November 3, 2017

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