It is frustrating

I have had problems with my back since November. And they are just getting worse. I was a dancer for 22 years, I have had injuries, I know the difference between actual body pain and the symptoms of anxiety. But I cannot get my doctors to take me seriously. I have seen 3 at the same practice and not one of them has given me an x-ray or any kind of test. One just gave me a really strong painkiller, which I can't take because it makes me anxious. Another told me to just do physical therapy. I did that for a while, but it didn't help and got worse. And the 3rd just looked at my chart, looked at me and said, "Well I am sure with your anxiety, you think it is some sort of cancer or something. I am sure that's not it, keep trying the medication and physical therapy". And I paid good money for that visit and they are about to get a nice little letter about!!!

I don't know why it is so hard for someone to order an x-ray or ultrasound that I ask for and not just look at my chart and assume I am just having anxiety issues. The back pain is what has been feeding my anxiety for the last few months and it is getting worse because my back is getting worse. The only person who has done anything to actually relieve pain is my chiropractor and even he is saying that he doesn't think his treatment is helping for the long term. It is very difficult when I put in so much effort and practice and feel a little relief from my anxiety, but then can't sleep because my back hurts so bad and starts the cycle over again. And to top it off, I am about to lose my health insurance without any of this being resolved.

I am so incredibly frustrated and in the process of seeking another PCP at another practice before I don't have insurance. I know that doctors are busy and that there are a lot of people out there who do have anxiety that affects them very physically, but this is different and I am just getting upset that no one will listen to me no matter how assertive I am. I am sorry for the vent, I am sure several of you have had the same sort of experiences and understand how frustrating it is.

Mommy

Larry,

Thank you so much. I feel like they are just jumping to conclusions because I am fairly young and they just want to say it's just a little strained...apparently for 6 months and getting worse. I know that it is not something ridiculous, because of anxiety, of course my first thoughts were it is something catastrophic and I am very proud of myself for bringing it down to a very reasonable, rational level and I just do not think it is too much to ask for a little respect. I just wish someone would take an actual look just to rule out anything that could be serious. I just don't think I should have to live in pain and it probably could have been fixed months ago. Thank you for understanding, this is why I come here!

Mommy

Hibee,

Thank you for the support. I am sorry to hear that you have Scheuermann's Disease. I do not know much about it. I just left my first doctor a message and I didn't "ask"; however, I TOLD them to give me an x-ray referral and if that was not possible to let me know so I could find someone else. I am waiting for a call back. So hopefully this goes well!

Mommy