Bab's Update-Pain Management

On Monday Mom met with the pain specialist to see what options he could offer. He manipulated her shoulders and neck to see where the pain was coming from, and what motions caused the most discomfort.

After some discussion, the plan is for her to have injections at a couple spots in the shoulders to see if the steroid/pain med combo gives her relief. If it seems to be effective, they will move ahead with doing injections in her neck to try to lessen that pain.

He believes he can get the shoulder injections done without too much difficulty or pain for her. The pain in her neck is so severe, and the neck has to be moved so much to find the correct points for needle insertion, plus they use imaging equipment to guide the injections, she'll need sedation for that procedure. Insurance will not cover sedation, so she'll need to pay out of pocket for that. I asked about fighting that decision, and he said the insurance company just will not do it. He thinks it only costs about $50 for the sedation, which seems really low, but obviously worth it.

He seemed hopeful that this could all help her pain, at least compared to the tepid hopes of the radiation oncologist. She'll go back on March 17 to try the shoulder injections.

Prayers and crossed fingers always welcome.