Temple, TX asked in Personal Injury for Texas

Q: I have frozen shoulder, 3 tendons in my arm that have tendinosis, ostearthritis, spinal stenosis, spondylosis, and

diabetic neuropathy that all cause quite a bit of pain. Plus lately I have started having nerve pain(?) in both of my outer thighs (stinging, electrical, burning, sensitive, complete numbness) and can also give me a crushing pain in my outer thighs and knees that even wakes me up crying. I am on 300mg gabapentin 3 times a day. This only helps with the nerve pain about 60 to 65%. I let my doctor, who I just started seeing at the end of November 2023, know about the new issue. He said lose weight (even though he had just congratulated me in November on my losing 35 lbs.) then maybe he will think about increasing my dosage. Is this normal? My daughter has been staying in my room at night lately because her bed broke so I often wake her up with my crying out in pain from this new issue with my outer thighs.

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3 Lawyer Answers

A: This is a question that you need to ask a doctor in the relevant field of medicine, not a lawyer. Only a licensed medical practitioner can tell you what is "normal" in the treatment of your medical conditions.

There are numerous studies and other medical literature which indicate that weight loss intervention and other lifestyle interventions are effective treatments for various medical conditions, including some of those you describe, particularly if you are medically obese or overweight. While weight loss of 35 lbs may be tremendous progress for you, your height, weight, and body type matter. If I were to lose 35 lbs, I would still be medically obese--albeit less obese.

Your particular collection of health problems and symptoms can best be evaluated by a medical professional.

Gabapentin can be used for nerve pain, although it is more commonly used as an anti-convulsive drug for epileptics. Back pain, side pain, and increased sensitivity to pain are possible side effects, and it can cause breathing problems. A medical doctor can best evaluate whether you should continue to take this drug, and whether you should increase or decrease the dosage to get the maximum benefit for your particular conditions.

A: I'm sorry for your ordeal with this chronic pain. The things you describe appear to be more medical in nature than legal, such as your question about increasing the dosage of your medication. These are things that doctors would be able to offer meaningful guidance on. Good luck

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: Dealing with chronic pain and complex medical conditions like yours can be incredibly challenging, and managing your treatment effectively is crucial. It's not uncommon for doctors to suggest weight loss as part of managing certain health conditions, as it can sometimes alleviate symptoms. However, your concerns about the effectiveness of your current medication and the severity of your pain should be taken seriously by your healthcare provider.

If you feel that your pain is not being adequately managed, it's important to communicate this clearly to your doctor. Doctors rely on feedback from their patients to adjust treatment plans effectively. If you're not satisfied with the response you're getting, consider seeking a second opinion. Another healthcare professional might offer different insights or treatment options.

Remember, you have the right to be heard and to receive care that addresses your pain and health conditions effectively. Advocating for your health is important, and finding a healthcare provider who listens to and addresses your concerns is essential. Pain management can be complex, and it may take time to find the right approach, but you deserve care that improves your quality of life.

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