HealingWell
Search Close Search
☰

Hello Again, from Misterkatamari!

Support Forums
>
Chronic Pain
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
1 2
❬ ❬ Previous Thread |Next Thread ❭ ❭
Posted 8/25/2013 1:37 AM (GMT 0)

Blessedx8 said...
Patrick --

Thank you for being an example of how you can totally disagree w/ something - and still remain civil and an intelligent "debate" can ensue.

Anyway - especially given your age - I think exploring all non-narcotic avenues first is the way to go. Ultimately, you may need some additional pain help -- but it's best to explore all alternatives first, in my opinion.

Take care --
Tina

Thanks, and I totally agree that exploring other alternatives first is the best answer. I honestly think later down the line I would look into surgery to correct my scoliosis (since it apparently has worsened even though I stopped growing) but that is not an option for me now due to age. I think, say, if I keep getting herniations and bulging discs, then it is likely a fusion or rod correction of my spine might end up helping a bit to guard against degradation. But I'm not looking at that right now or any time soon, still it's something to consider when looking at if I need to use/try narcotics or other treatments. For instance, if I did get surgery much later on and had severe issues at least I wouldn't be super tolerant to narcotics already.
Posted 8/25/2013 3:50 AM (GMT 0)
I had the same attitude as you do when it comes to the TENS unit. I figured why not? I had nothing left to lose and I was pretty desperate to find something else to add to my arsenal.

I was pleasantly surprised and use the unit on an almost daily basis.

It's not a miracle cure, but it is a great addition to my bag of tricks. Anything that can bring the pain level down a few notches- even just for the time I'm using it...is worth it!!!!

I was introduced to the TENS Unit at physical therapy. And since it worked well for me, my doc wrote a script and my physical therapist ordered it. Come Sept, it'll become mine, rather than a "rental".
Posted 8/25/2013 5:51 AM (GMT 0)
Patrick, Tina's so right! I know your young and after the shock wore off of having me "edit " your post I was amazed at your level of respect! I didn't get the feeling you were happy about my edit but you certainly understood why. I really appreciated that.

I applaud your insight on your own shortcomings, I guess, surrounding long term opiate use as well.

I've seen many folks here get some fairly good results from their TENS. Hopefully you will be able to obtain one and get the same or better results.

If the insurance for some reason wont pay let me know and I will share how a friend got hers for free!
Posted 8/25/2013 7:37 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks everyone.

I'm optimistic that I can get one since I am on my dad's state employee insurance still. My own medicaid stuff won't pay for it, but the employee-based one should. I just probably will have an out of pocket expense, so if it was ridiculous (like over 100+) then I would maybe not be so quick to try it right now.
Posted 8/25/2013 7:43 AM (GMT 0)
There are several decent units that cost less than $100 (or so I was told when I asked my physical therapist the price range if insurance didn't cover it).

You can google "Tens Unit" and get several reputable sites that will send you a unit (insurance or no insurance) as long as you have a valid script.

Definitely worth looking into, even if only to see what kind of unit you might prefer!
Posted 8/28/2013 7:58 AM (GMT 0)

LexiRae said...
There are several decent units that cost less than $100 (or so I was told when I asked my physical therapist the price range if insurance didn't cover it).

You can google "Tens Unit" and get several reputable sites that will send you a unit (insurance or no insurance) as long as you have a valid script.

Definitely worth looking into, even if only to see what kind of unit you might prefer!

Wow, that is very cheap compared to what I was thinking of.

If I get the ok and fitted for one, I will certainly describe my experience with you all in a seperate thread. If anyone is interested.

I will focus its use mostly on my lower back, hip, and left leg pain.
Posted 8/28/2013 1:34 PM (GMT 0)
I actually saw one on Swip/Swap for $35 a few weeks ago. The lady's husband had passed away and she was getting rid of lots of great stuff! She had one of those inversion table things for $50. I thought that was great then I saw the price and type of stuff she had like power chair, a walker, canes, and a memory foam mattress on a hospital frame and even that sold for $200. He must have had back issues. It was a spinal persons dream sale!

Anyway MrK you look around some you might be pleasantly surprised at what you can afford.

My neighbors just got a totally free hot tub on Craigslist, looks brand new and came with everything.
Posted 8/29/2013 1:28 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Vickie I know what Craig's list is, but what is swip/swap? I googled it, and couldn't figure anything out. Is it only for certain places in Florida?

I'm sorry to hitchhike your post mrkatamari.

hugs
Loretta
Posted 8/29/2013 3:44 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Loretta! Sorry they are F/B places. Search in there and it will show a list of those in your area. Some will say open and some will say group only. Those you can still visit you just have to join by friend request.

I really like to look there and many have things they want to trade for.
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
12