The Painful Truth (full-length documentary)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 4 ต.ค. 2024
- The Painful Truth documentary tells the stories of people who are hurting the most. They discuss their ordeals with friends, pharmacists, and doctors while fighting the system. They talk about giving up and how, sometimes, suicide seems like the easiest solution.
About the Producers
Lynn R. Webster, M.D. is an internationally recognized expert in pain and addiction medicine. Dr. Webster has long been an advocate for patients suffering from chronic pain and addiction. He has fought for better education and safer therapies to address the twin crises of chronic pain and addiction in America.
Craig Wirth has been in broadcasting 46 years starting in high school in Great Falls, Montana. He started at our channel four in 1970 for the first of several stretches as Utah’s TV story teller. He later worked as a network correspondent in Los Angeles and for TV stations in New York and Los Angeles.
#chronicpain #pain #addiction #opioids #lynnwebstermd #thepainfultruth #documentary #lynnwebster
Pain patients are incredibly discriminated against. We have no rights.
None. Zero. We have zero rights. Ugh. 🥹
It’s awful
I’m mobility challenged and my rights are less than zero. I’m unable to function as well as I could while on higher level of pain meds and am challenged just to keep them balanced
yes you do
I couldn’t agree more! I’ll keep you in my prayers!
No one has any compassion or empathy until it happens to them. People are so judgemental. They would rather a person suffer than to let someone have a little relief. You have one last perfect day and then it's over. Doctors tell you to live with it. Everyone has something to say except the person in pain.
100%. I have been disabled with many pain issues that I have lived with for over 23 years now because of an awful car accident that happened a month after I turned 32 yrs old.
I was in so much pain that 3 months after the car accident I decided that if I "couldn't find a doctor to fix the pain, I was going to kill myself at the 6-month point.
Luckily / unluckily the car accident was not my fault and there were seven different lawsuits involved which meant that I had to go to every single doctor they told me to go to so I got treated in every possible way including experimental FDA trials and such. It turned out after 8 years of crazy injections into my head and spine, weird Physical Therapy that include electrocuting me to make the muscles in the back of my neck not work anymore and Botox injections at a FDA trial that I paid $10,000 every 3 months.
My family was awful to me. My mother told me to just get over it and she said that I needed to "power through the pain". My sister was stealing my medication and then crying and screaming begging me not to put her in jail. While I was out of it undergoing all kinds of treatment and seeing doctors of all kinds, my mom was stealing my checks out of my purse and writing them to herself. Again the bank said we can give you your money back but you'll have to have your mother put in jail. It was a nightmare.
About 10 years after all of this happened in 9 years since I was put on a very low dose of methadone, my mom decided that all my problems were because of the drugs and she took me to her house at an 8 Acre Farm where I couldn't leave and she detoxed me . About 3 weeks into that she had to call an ambulance on me because I had become unresponsive / passed out completely. My mother left me in that condition for 3 days. I personally believe she wanted me to die there.
At the hospital my mom lied to my neurologist I overdosed on paxil. My doctor ran tests on me and determined I had no drugs in my system. While I was in the hospital for 8 days, my mother wake me up off the bathroom did not come to see me one time but my neurologist showed up every day . I later found out that while I was in the hospital my mom was going to my attorney, my doctors and the various family members that were treating me like crap to get power of attorney over me "because I was a drug addict".
My mom had no interest in taking care of me my mom was interested in settling those lawsuits and having power over the money.
I ended up not speaking to her for years and every time I have dealt with her since then it's the same thing until she hits 75 years old. Suddenly pain is now a real thing she hurts too bad to take out her garbage, she hurts too bad to do house cleaning, she hurts too bad to do her grocery shopping, she hurts too bad to do her laundry. Now she can't show up to family holidays like I couldn't do for the last 23 years. I guess karma Kane but she got 75 years pain free and I only got 32.
It's literally a miracle that I survived. Even my doctor of 23 years that I'm seeing today says that. The condition I have occipital neuralgia causes a cluster headache which the AMA call a suicide headache
47:06
No honey they don't believe you're suffering because you try to put on a happy face and fight through it. So sorry for all those who suffer with chronic pain. My steps were so fast no one could keep up with me. Now everyone has to slow down and wait on me even on a good day. So sad to hear so many without any help. 🙏
I'm not on oxycodone but I'm a nurse. My brother is a doctor. He sees elderly people coming into the trauma center, and it's for an overdose. He finally asks a lady in her 80s what she was doing on street drugs. She told him that she couldn't get her meds anymore because her physician quit giving them to her. A lady in her 80s is on street drugs now. It's so much easier for the CDC to get off the backs of the doctors and allow them to do their jobs.
B S ! we still can`t get anything that works !
I agree that Doctors are not able to do what they think is best for their patients. NOT the DEA.❤
@EDD519 I know that! I do know that doctors are not allowed to prescribe a pain killer if a person is on Benzo's. My brother has been in the medical field for over 40 years. He is so aggregated that he just retired. He took an early retirement because he cares so much about people. I think he might pull back out of retirement because he really enjoys helping people. I know what I can and can not call in. He usually works in trauma. He deals with a little bit of everything.
I personally know if 1 elderly woman taken off all her medications at once so rapidly it killed her. (*was no reason to stop any of her long term no issues with doses nor any other medical reason requiring any doc to take any of her medications away other than FEAR INDUCED by State to state lawmakers misinformation & misunderstanding medical information & DEA ~ CDC & other SUGGESTED GUIDELINES being misinterpreted, ridged adherence to suggestions for individual ussed across all patients & all diagnosis etc. Real mess with not clarified language used in GUIDELINES *)
TOO MANY INTERESTS STIRRED INTO ONE BIG POT CREATING TOXIC STEW.
NOT ENOUGH EDUCATION FOR THE MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS
NOT TO MENTION THE COMPLETE MISINTERPRETATION & IGNORANCE OF THOSE WITH NO MEDICAL EDUCATION OF ANY KIND ~ CREATING LAWS ....
UGH ~NASTY SIDE EFFECTS OF UNEDUCATED~ PERSONAL OPINIONS, POLICY MAKERS, POLITICAL INTERESTS, & GREED MIXED UP WITH MEDICAL & HEALTH ISSUES ~😢😮😢
Medical professionals need to wake up
I got off my meds and got it held against me and denied disability. But then if I ask for more I’m a drug seeker. The cycle never ends . Disgusting .
That is terrible!! I was cut off my private disability and lost everything I had worked my butt off for. And the work was what destroyed my spine.
@@holly0297 sue your employer
😥😭😢😱@@holly0297
@@VictorMendez-l6u need a good crooked lawyer !
American have to work two and three jobs just to make it I think that is what happened to me.we are overworked
‘For profit’ and ‘healthcare system’ are words that should never be spoken together in the same sentence.
The VA is non profit government healthcare. Many Veterans aren’t able to receive care because of rationing and they have restricted most veterans to low or no opioid pain meds.
If my Oxycodone were taken from me, I wouldnt make it. I have Ehlers-Danlos Sydrome, POTS, fibromyalgia, several destroyed discs, arthritis, collapsed feet. The medicine does not take away all the pain, but it makes it somewhat tolerabare. We are NOT drug addicts!
Amen.
Just promise me you don’t drive. Then I don’t care how much you want to use
I’m shocked that you wrote that bcuz it’s my own story except for losing my child
@@mollyprysunka7741 you’re totally clueless about this subject….I’ve suffered serious injuries from 3 different drunk drivers but I’ve never driven impaired
Same plus severe S scoliosis and I have no curve in my cervical spine and hypertrophy in several discs and I was forced onto a methadone program after the DEA arrested my old PCP when they got involved with this nightmare because of the CDC guidelines and now I'm treated like absolute garbage. The EDS caused a CSF leak and it took me 3 yrs to convince my neurologist I was leaking and of course I contracted bacterial meningitis and the ED was more interested in why I was on methadone than anything else and I had to go back 17xs for 6 months and they just kept dx me with extremely rare known complications of meningitis like rhabdomyolysis and compartment syndrome and it went all the way into my abdomen and I was crying and begging for help because of the new pain and infection in my brain which is obviously swollen before they stopped mocking me and putting disgusting stuff in my chart like "she thinks her body is special and does things others don't do" because I didn't drop dead and they're woefully inept and cruel.
Like the guy in the documentary said, you don’t get addicted like an addict does, if you are in pain. You are taking pain medication to relieve pain, not to get high. Pain patients just get relief from their pain, they don’t take it to get high. I hate when they talk about people getting addicted when pain patients are not addicts. We do not abuse our medications. I’m glad that the documentary, at least points out chronic pain patients do not get addicted.
Right. Chronic pain patients get (necessarily) dependent, not addicted.
Pain medication takes the edge off but makes you feel numb all over. I never understand why someone would want to feel numb all over and get addicted. I think these people have mental health problems.
Exactly, my family won't talk to me because they see me constantly taking my medicine all day =26 pills daily, and think I'm faking the pain. 3 spine surgery a failed stimulator and Ankylosing Spondylitis. I need more surgery in the future. People don't understand this daily fight. Add the financial burden and lack of well being. Our system and Gov is crazy not me.
@@dawnsanderson1508 I so empathize with you. So sorry you have such a horrible suffering like way too many of us do. They keep making it rougher and I’m sick to death of hearing addicts testify, now we need chronic pain patients like you and me testify. And explain we need this medication to just exist. And if we get better help we can actually enjoy our lives. This is barbarism and I’m sorry to hear your family does that. They wouldn’t last one minute If they had your burdens and suffering. Sending a lot of love. And understanding your way. ❤️🫶
Not addicted per se but we are very dependent - I am on prescribed Fentanyl patches, which I change every 3 days. There have been times when I have forgotten to change them, and by God do I feel dreadful!
I lost my daughter to suicide last year, and my 88 year mum asked our GP for something to help her sleep - GP prescribed her some 2mg Diazepam, she takes 1/2 at night, and the Pharmacist who reviews her medication was 'concerned' that she may become addicted - at 88 years of age, does it really matter???
I am in the UK - pain clinics are absolutely useless, don't prescribe anything here but 'graded exercise', but if you can't actually walk because of the pain, what use is that! I was fortunate that my GP continued with my Fentanyl really - it helps me function, albeit at a very low level. I am chronically ill with several co-morbidities after 24 lots of surgery. Quite honestly it was the NHS that f**ked me over, although nobody meant to do harm (I was misdiagnosed for some years initially, and Consultant wouldn't listen to me) it's just turned out that way. I'm expecting that surgery number 25 is heading my way - it will be an emergency scenario. IF I can get an ambulance, and IF I can get into A&E, and IF they listen to me and not leave me screaming in agony for 8 hours like last time, and IF they decide to act and not slap a DNR on me (it seems they are doing this to over 60's now) rather than leave me long enough that my bowel perforates, dies and gives me sepsis, then I might live to see another day - quite frankly I am now terrified.
However, this is not a life it's an existence ... the UK govt doesn't give enough £ to have a life with when you become unable to work, just enough to cover your 'basic needs'. I would include heating in that, but I can't afford to put it on. It's been 4*C in my room over the last few days and the cold certainly doesn't improve your pain, just makes it worse ...
As an ER nurse I never judged patients if they would tell me they were in pain. I believe them and and would advocate for them if needed😊
same. Although I am only an MA, I have worked for the same neurologist for 34 years, and I am the one to fill out their forms, write letters of medical necessity, etc. Far be it from me (who is also a chronic pain patient) to judge?
THANK YOU!
@@judeflowers2813 THANK YOU!
You would be a truly unicorn experience. I refuse to go to the ER. I’ve told my family- only bring me there if I’m unconscious and you don’t know what else to do. I stopped going years ago when I was treated so incredibly rudely that it was apparently better to suffer in pain- than be in that kind of pain and accused of things I just don’t do. And won’t do. I’ll die before buying drugs off the street.
But what about your colleagues??? They probably discriminate daily! 💯
I’m an RN, and I am so angry at how these poor patients were treated!! I specialize in treating pain cases- we would never allow these patients to to be treated the way they were treated!! I’ll keep all of these patients in my prayers!
Same, here! When I was trained in the early 1980’s, there was no excuse for a patient to be in uncontrolled pain…it was a nurse’s responsibility to treat the pain until it was under reasonable control, and sometimes I would spend my whole shift working to achieve that for one or more patients.
Imagine my distress at discovering that I would not be allowed relief of pain that developed from a work injury in 2008. After several years of useless treatments, and costly and ineffective medications, my family doctor took pity, and gave me a limited opioid prescription. It was too late, though…due to mis-management by the Worker’s Comp hired guns and years of agony, an injury that was initially limited to one elbow had progressed to involve the opposite elbow, both shoulders and neck, and eventually the entire spine, causing intense, generalized 24/7 pain and extreme sleep deprivation.
Fortunately, I have come under the care of a great specialist. Getting prescriptions filled is still an ordeal, however, and worsening by the month. The DEA will order a reduction in opioid and narcotic manufacturing in 2024 for the 8th consecutive year. The writing is on the wall, and I am trying to prepare for quickly becoming bedridden-and possibly not surviving due to neurovascular stress or complications of immobility-when medications eventually become unavailable. It’s all a bit ironic that I live less than an hour’s drive from a notorious, thriving open-air drug market…but I’m not laughing.
Thankfully my pain is more or less managed due to a few tweaks and changes in my meds that I suggested. I am not an RN ( though I wanted to be), Im just an MA but Ive worked for the same neurologist for 34 years and am also a chronic pain patient. So I am able to see both sides. So like others have said, when I rate my pain, I usually say 4/5 when it is managed and report less flare ups, thankfully. But a "regular" person would be heading to the ER!
You're a rare find. Altho when my Dr killed himself over this, their nurses did cry telling me I couldn't get treated anymore
I do not believe you. Sorry, not sorry.
You are only an RN, you cannot treat patients with the medications they need to simply survive. You cannot write a prescription and therefore you cannot help. Please don't lie, especially to yourself. That certainly helps no one. The government is now your personal physician. If a Dr cannot give what a pain patient needs, you certainly cannot either.
I am not taking anything from your hard work as an RN, they all seem to work hard and long hours. But the reality is that you do not have the power to make anyone feel better. All medical practices are most concerned with covering their own ass and making sure they can continue to make a paycheck. I have yet to see ANY Dr, or nurse, go to bat with the government who continues to deprive the chronically ill. The government has grossly lost their "fight on drugs". Overdoses are the actions of illegal drug users. Want proof? Look at how "well" condemning the ill to a life of hell has all but wiped out overdoses in this country. The irony is sickening. Drug crimes are at an all time high, deaths by illegal drugs has never been higher. In other words, the government has failed. Even our veterans with war torn wounds cannot get help for the pain they live with.
So instead of claiming you have helped anyone, how about advocating for pain patients? Do something for those in so much pain they cannot fight. Question WHY you have not been your patients advocate. Stop lying to yourself. Stop pretending you are helping.
Yes, I am being harsh with you. I say the same to all who work in any capacity of "Pain Management", I have no idea how you all sleep at night. You all have much blood on your hands.
Prayer never worked for me dear
When my husband was dying of cancer, the incredible legislated obstacles to getting him the pain meds he needed to stay comfortable were overwhelming and constant. Even with a cancer diagnosis, every prescription only lasts 30 days and cannot be changed. When you are terminal with pain, your pain meds from last week are no longer enough. You run around constantly to get prescriptions and get them filled. You can't keep up with the symptoms. We were forced to go on hospice care simply to get adequate pain management. Even an oncologist office can't get the pain care managed correctly.
That's heartbreaking 😞My grandmother is currently battling stage 4 cancer & in horrific pain. Thank God it's different in canada(or at least where we are) but ppl do still struggle here😔It's not fair that junkies have cast such a horrible light on legitimate pain sufferers
NO ONE should have that much power over anyone else !
I am so sorry! I. Broke hip femur and 4 back surgeries Full of rods and screws
Now a year ago I had emergency surgery to.remove a large tumor from my colon which was Cancer which moved to.my liver stage 4! I have always gone to pain specialist, never abused anything
Now moving into Pallative cate but they don't want.to manage pain??? I hurt so bad from.everything now I don't know what to do. My pain doctor is wonderful but leaving the practice. I will be bed bound and then no reason to live! Empathy is out the window w many doctors
A great many oncologists have stopped prescribing pain meds. They are sending their patients to pain management clinic where no one is knowledgeable, let alone specialized, in cancer pain management.
I went through something similar with my father. They gave him a death sentence and said he would only live a week. He lived for five weeks. The first two doctors would not write a script because they were afraid he would get addicted. It’s inhumane and it’s disgusting! There’s only a handful of doctors standing up. they don’t care if you are dying. I was shocked. Healthcare has gotten so bad PPL don’t want to go to the doctor. Why bother going if you are chronically ill but they can’t help you.
Thanks so much for this video.I have suffered for over 40 years. Forced tapered, now homebound. Zero quality of life, from active to couch bound. Lost everything, medically bankrupt. Labeled untreatable, cprs,intractable nerve pain syndrome from 2 botched back surgeries. I live in excruciating pain 24/7. I advocate for chronic pain patients, trying to spread truth. Thanks to you and others for speaking truth. I have had every procedure, med, treatment, etc,and nothing helps except oxycontin and oxycodone. Please help spread the truth by sharing this video.
So sorry for what you have been through. I have been suffering from Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue for over thirty years. I cannot tolerate most drug except oxycodone. I am not addicted as I have been on the same low dose for many years. My doctor wants me to stop taking,them. Mi told her she must come up with an alternative first. I have been in. Severe flare up for the past six weeks and am having even more new painful symptoms. My friends and family where very concerned about me as I just couldn’t get my pain under control and was in a very bad state. My blood pressure went up and so did my blood sugars. I finally doubled up on my medication and it calmed down my symptoms and I managed to get through the day and be a little productive. I am seeing my doctor this week and going to ask for more meds. Will be interested to see what she has to say. I saw a video on pain control by pain specialists. They said that not having pain control can kill people through high blood pressure, blood sugar, heart attacks and even committing suicide. I am now 76 and would just love to be able to live the rest of my life with some pain relief so I can function a little better and have some sort of quality of life. So sad that we have had to live for so many years of our lives in such pain which has robbed us all of most of the joy in life. I live in Canada and so far the doctors haven’t taken us off our meds. They do tell us that frequently that they are not good for us. I know that, but there are so many side effects from all the other meds they try us on we should have a choice. Also we don’t pay for our health care (only through our taxes) so thank God we don’t have the stress of that. My sister in law lived in Kansas City and had a lot of pain related health conditions for many years. They remortgaged their home three times for her health care. She finally passed away in her early sixties. Her husband walked away from his home not owning any part of it after living there for nearly 40 years. He is now living out his retirement in a trailer. So very sad. Please take care. I hope you find some help. It is so disgusting that they can just take people off their pain meds who are suffering so terribly. It is the same as torturing someone. Big hugs from one pain sufferer to another. Please feel free to reply to me any time you need to talk to someone. ❤️🇨🇦❤️🇨🇦
I’m in the same boat Stephanie ❤❤❤ you’re not alone
Currently fighting SSDI had to hire a lawyer to get a measley
few hundred dollars a month .
Sending love to all ❤❤❤ the only reason I’m still here is my kids.
@@pamelasmith2625thank you so much for commenting ❤❤❤ my story is almost identical to yours ❤❤
I’m so sorry. It’s been really hard. I have ai DNR at 59. My doctor stopped my forced step down a month ago after gall bladder surgery. But I used to go out, go swimming, movies - after forced tapering and removal of most of my other meds i no longer function. The paperwork and extra work that my doctor goes through.
As far as I know, Dr. Jay is still sitting in prison. Once recognized as a leading neurologist in the US Southwest, he was taken down by DEA. His patients tried in vain to argue for him bc he understood chronic pain.
Sad
Sad 😢
So sad
IF PAIN IS PSYCHOLOGICAL-WHY IS TORTURE SO EFFECTIVE???!!!!!!
EXACTLY!!
Good point.
Good one!!!I will have to remember that one at my next appointment!
Exactly. I tell people all the time, "IF I INFLICTED THIS KIND OF PAIN UPON ANOTHER, I'D BE IN PRISON."
All great points here. Would love to collect a few more!💜
I was first called a Drug Addict around 2007 after my first hip replacement. I was SHOCKED & HORRIFIED. I'm used to it now, and that's S A D !
It’s ridiculous the woman that was shot cannot get disability.
Happens every single day in the US. No other first world country tortures the ill this way.
My heart hurts for her! She should write her Governor, State Representative along with all of medical team, first responders, church, and community. Her daughter was killed as well. Image the PTSD alone. God please help her.
It’s odd because I got it for depression
It normally takes a long time to get disability through
@@blahblahblah6499 that is absolutely NOT true! The healthcare in the UK, Canada, Australia, Netherlands- all are disasters! England has 8 MILLION on a waiting list to get a GP. Hours wait for any ambulance. They're going to Mexico for appointments. Canada advises suicide if you're suffering, have cancer, chronic pain- even anorexia. People can wait months for surgery no matter how they hurt- or if a joint is ruined. Broken hips even! The disaster stories are heartbreaking. As bad as ours is, it's the best by far. Which is so tragic.
Thanks for shedding light on the plight of MILLIONS of people in pain who are suffering due to grossly incompetent lawmakers & government overreach.
My life ended in 2016 when tapering my pain meds began. I no longer can go outside and live. I can only sit in one comfortable chair in my home. I don't get mammograms, teeth cleanings or my colonoscopy that was supposed to be about 10 years ago due to the previous colonoscopy that had issues.
I don't understand why alcohol is more dangerous to EVERYONE but prescribed pain meds which are not the cause of most overdoses are taken from us suffering. I can't sleep, don't like getting up and would not be here if not for my husband. I cant shop, clean, and i haven't not felt no pain since 1995.
Just stupid and illogical.
Investigate the methadone liberal prescribing practices in Germany or i think belguim may be similar. Its not easy for a non european to get help but its the only escape from suicide that im aware of at the moment. Canada probably has similar methadone multi dose per day possibility since they seem to have a liberal drug policy. Please stop trying to find pain treatment its both a trick and a trap they'll always cut you off one day and kill you for no apparent reason. You must seek substitution services. A private dr can help but only if you're lucky enough to find one who will take you on as a patient without eu insurance. Its extremely difficult but not impossible
I am so sorry. Yeh, I'm not too unlike you. After I got tapered off, though, I finally got into a clinic and get Suboxone. It's saved my life. Nothing's perfect, but I'm here and can do a little bit sometimes.
I totally agree! I wish I could give you TEN thumbs up for your comments!!!
Same here. Tapered by 2/3 in 2014 . downhill ever since. Keep telling Dr., no mammogram, no colonoscopy, no vaccines. If not for my soulmate, I would not want to be here either and that is so sad to say. Sitting in a chair all day, staring at the door to the world outside is not living.
We treat animals better than human beings in this country. What a shame. 😢
True!
No, we don't. They suffer horribly in factory "farms " where they are seen as commodities, not sentient creatures.
That said, we treat patients in pain as if they are lying and using it as an excuse to feed an addiction. The medical establishment would rather blame the sufferer than themselves for how we got to this point. Real people in terrible pain are now denied relief because doctors fear legal repercussions for overprescribing. It's a tragedy. I have continuous pain. I know firsthand.
@@maureenobrien9815 I totally agree. It is shameful. My point with animals is when they are put down when they are sick and old…..we allow humans to suffer in their illness without quality of life for years and years as doctors continue getting payment to drag on the lives of those that should have passed long ago. I do understand what you are saying and I would not disagree.
I have spent my life working in Healthcare.
Over the years the Medical Establishment swerves one way, and then overcorrects to swerve too far in the opposite direction.
We KNOW that pain isn't bad only because it "hurts"... pain causes physiological changes in the body that interfere with healing.
Pain comes with many known and quite a few less understood hormonal, chemical changes that always create a cascade affect.... Causing yet more pain.
I still tell people to take that pain medication, stay AHEAD of pain because it's FAR easier to maintain some prevention, even if it isn't perfect, than it is to stop pain that has been allowed to "dig in".
Addiction CANNOT be the primary concern for any healthcare professional treating patients with pain.... Especially patients who have clear, documented illnesses and/or injuries.
BTW, I am a Cancer Survivor myself and I will never forget the pain.
Having chronic pain myself, I can say this is an accurate video of how we are treated. Thank my good Lord, I have a pain specialist that really understands. I hate begging to get my pain prescriptions refilled from the pharmacy. And it's a nightmare when they're on backordered!!
If a person is an elder, they always have pain. Pain meds they could get something’s things done as before they couldn’t. There is no happiness in pain. If a person is old, who cares if you become addicted, at least you can enjoy few more years.
My grandfather had terrible pain in his feet... He was tough but he would be reduced to tears when it got really bad .. which was a few times a week. The rest of the week he hobbled around and tried gels, sprays, rubs... Whatever we could find to try to help him get some relief. When he was about 90 years old, they finally let him have 5mg of hydrocodone twice a day. Sometimes it helped, sometimes it didn't. What he really needed was a slow release med that was constantly in his system instead of all the ups and downs... And something with a little more power than hydrocodone. They wouldn't give him anything stronger because he might get addicted to it .. or it might cause him to lose his balance, etc. What they wouldn't hear is that he was already stumbling because his feet hurt. It made me so mad to see him reduced to the fetal position on the couch... What he wanted was to get out into his yard, to rake his leaves, to mow his grass. And this could have been accomplished with a stronger med! He died at 93... He could have had such a better quality of life!
There is a difference between narcotic dependence and addiction. I too have intractable and unfixable pain that went from manageable to 24/7 after a car accident. The stigma is the worst side effect of needing narcotics to manage intractable pain. As a nurse I medicated many people under my care. Now I’m unable to work. People have the right to reasonable pain control. It’s such a burden and now the added burden of having to see my doctor every 3 months paying astronomical amounts ($300 for 60 pills) and Purdue is still operating a monopoly on the drug I need to keep my pain stable.
It’s a struggle for each thing I do. I had a pharmacist stand there giving me a lecture who never even interacted with me before, didn’t know my history in front of strangers in line behind me. This is blame the patient rather than help them. Hippocrates oath is FIRST DO NO HARM. 🤷🏼♀️
Pulling yourself by your bootstraps is a terrible thing to say to a person in pain. That’s just as harmful as telling someone no pain, no gain.
I find it frustrating when a patient with a heart condition as an example doesn’t have to fight for their medication to manage their disease. however when it comes to patients with chronic pain, we are having to fight for our medications! I understand doctors have to be diligent but we have gone to other side of the spectrum by doctors now being too scared to prescribe pain meds. for patients who require them! I suffer with chronic pain ever since my cancer treatment. Ever since I have no quality of life, lost everything and struggle everyday! I never thought this would be my life! It’s true when they say if u don’t have ur health u have nothing! Bc when u can’t control ur body u can’t do the most simple of tasks no matter how strong ur will power is! I feel very discouraged by doctors. I agree with many things said in this video. I didn’t pick my illness so needing a pain med to treat it shouldn’t be an issue I am being judged and or penalized for. I’m just a patient needing help, not a drug seeker!
This diligence was caused impart by Dr's who over prescribed mismanaged the rx that has had caused the change in managed care for many with chronic real conditions. This was brought on by those seeking prescriptions to sell black market and or feed their addiction. The system struggled to halt that in the end it did a disservice to those who truly need pain management. No one wants to create a liason to monitor this in our system so a one size fits all approach has hurt more innocent people along the way
Welcome to my life. 10 years now since my life turned upside down, the worst thing is not being heard and believed, to feel that your Dr is more interested in seeing if you are seeking drugs rather than digging deep into your condition to see what they can do to help you. In my country we rely on the government for assistance and there are very few treatments available. The hardest thing for me was not being able to be the mother I once was to my children and I related to that poor mother who said she is only here because of her son. I wouldn’t be here either. ❤ bless her. To have pain 24/7 is hell it is not living. I have gotten to a place of acceptance and I have learnt the tools to help tone down the volume of my pain, but the pain still flares to unbearable levels. Mentally, physically, socially life is shit. I’m not mental I’m not a drug addict I’m not a horrible person.. it’s sad.
Please search Dr. John Sarno, Dr. Howard Schubiner, This might hurt, PPD association, .... There is hope, believe me!
I understand. Got same attitude from doctors as you have.
A haematologist told me that Pharmac had declined the application for meds. Pharmac wrote, he never applied. It was the neurologist who could see what was causing the pain, physical, cognitive decline. It's been seven years of hell, discrimination, abuse and more.
I agree, and the government assistance for people in the UK is just enough to cover your 'basic' needs! Why should someone disabled only be entitled to something basic? It is so basic that I cannot afford to heat my home in winter - it has been -7*C out, and 4*C inside my room. I'm literally being kept alive by a heated throw - and now the local authority is asking me to pay towards the care and support I get each day to help me wash and dress as I cannot manage. I can't afford heating, how will I pay for that? I cannot reduce the care calls either, as the cost is still the same, the only thing I can do is refuse to have it. Life with the help is a misery, without it I will be taking the path that my daughter did in 2022, I have the means to do it, very easily. I'm only really hanging about because my mum is still alive and I have another daughter, 2 granddaughters and a dog who would have to be pts if I wasn't here.
When I went to my doctor years ago he acted like I was an addict. It makes you feel like you are one! I now go to a pain clinic and I get medication and other procedures to help with the pain. Seriously I would rather just die than have to try and live without the help this medication gives me. It makes it bearable.
Those narcotics are addictive even if you are in pain as long as you take them you are most likely addicted.
@@New-bw4kz WTF do you call a diabetic: an addict because they need insulin? There is a difference between dependence, as in needing something to maintain a life, and addiction which, by the way, is also an illness. The biggest pain we endure is dealing with puritanical, judgemental puritans with no compassion or intelligence.
Pain medication takes the edge off but makes you feel numb all over. I never understand why someone would want to feel numb all over and get addicted. I think these people have mental health problems.
@New-bw4kz That isn't true. Addiction and dependence are 2 different things. It even mentioned that in the movie. The body becomes used to it; that's dependence. Addiction is psychological. Not everyone has an addictive personality. I've been in chronic pain for more than 20 years. I'm not an addict. My husband, he's a disabled vet has had chronic pain, including phantom pain and nerve pain, since 1986. He's not an addict either. Around 85% of people who are on long-term pain meds take their meds as prescribed and see their doctors regularly, and don't get addicted. That's the newest research.
That statement is not accurate at all.
There are people who do not have addiction in their DNA.
I've seen addicts and those are people who do become addicted.
Same as alcohol, some have one drink and can't stop.
Plenty of other people can have a drink and never finish it.
I know people who smoked cigarettes.
Some easily stopped,
others want to stop yet, find it near impossible.
Never say never ...
Yes, you will be "physically" addicted after taking Opiates or any scheduled drug for long term, an ailment, car accident, surgery etc..
If you follow the instructions & take the same amount of pain meds each day, even for 1-2 years, It will help you get out of bed and start your day, or Physical therapy when ready and never use more than directed or "double up"
Not following the directions can make it worse.
A big accident -
(think Jeremy Renner's snow plow accident)
or a surgery, Hip replacements, Knee replacements, Back injury surgery etc...
You will need those. When you want to stop, just ask your physician how to "taper off" if not, you will go into withdrawal.
Nobody wants withdrawal.
So when a person has healed and is doing physical therapy, which I believe is critical for weaning off pain medication and healing your body.
Done correctly, under your doctor's instructions it becomes easier than ever to stop taking the not needed prescription anymore.
Addiction to pain meds, alcohol, cigarettes etc. ..
Do become addictive after long-term use. So if you have any problems stopping the constipating, drying your body & face out Opiates, and you trust your physician, call them and tell them you want to stop and ask how to taper off, they will guide you through it.
I understand that some people have addictive personalities and some don't, either way you still will be "physically" addicted.
Ask your physician how to taper you off.
They know exactly what you need to do, to not go into a physical withdrawal. Some people will be able to taper off with out any problem.
Others might need additional support to wean off.
Don't ever be afraid to ask your surgeon or any Physician you trust.
I think we don't realize how strong our brains are,
"mind over matter" is a real thing.
*Physicians; Please don't take a chronically ill person's pain medication away.
That's brutal & inhumane.
*Patients do everything you can to utilize your prescription medication for your pain.
Don't take it for the euphoria, that leads to more problems... and never double your prescription or misuse it.
If you are having trouble getting the right amount of pain medication or feel under treated,
tell your doctor, "Hey, 2 every 4-6 hours isn't working" or whatever your prescription is.
You don't have to feel embarrassed or stay quiet.
This is the critical time to get & keep the pain under control.
Good Physicians & Surgeons understand that.
Just be honest with them.
They would rather keep you out of pain than misuse and become addicted.
Hope this helps ❤
Im a Lyme Disease patient and I'm in pain everyday - I don't have any pain medication, Lyme Disease patients used to be able to have pain meds
Before the law against Opiate prescribing.
They were caught off guard, on top of their daily unrelenting pain.
That law became in affect before I was bitten by a tick & now have Chronic Lyme Disease or "not yet gone Lyme Disease"
I guess this new-ish law caught all Chronically ill off guard.
Keep looking for the right pain management physician.
If one doesn't work out, go to another until you find someone who understands how to help you with your pain.
Again, I hope this helps anyone who is going through this.
💚
I’m in this category, and relate. My personality has changed, as well as the perception of others to my presence. Now in my 70s, it doesn’t bother me as much. My doctors know my conditions and that’s what matters. The Lord is my Shepard, and when He knows it’s the time, He’ll call me Home.
Chronic illnesses are looked upon as unreal, but it is as real as Diabetes and Heart Disease.
I like to think the idea of having severe chronic pain is so hard to grasp because it makes others so uncomfortable to think it exists. That it's empathy gone wrong. I know it was hard for me to believe it could be real. I'm doing what I think is the last option - I tried ketamine infusions. They don't work for everyone, but they're doing wonders for me. I have Fibromyalgia and 3 autoimmune disorders. It's really helped with my severe pain, depression & stress. Not a cure, but it really 8mproves my quality of life. Unfortunately it's usually not covered by insurance. I'd go without a lot of things to continue it but fortunately boyfriend helps me.
I was in chronic pain for two years and it was the worst thing ever. Yes, you look fine so no one gets it. Thank goodness -it’s over. Mine was from a surgery that needed a ton of PT. Which was the answer. But the pain day in and day out, terrible!
17,000 opioid deaths per year is bad but what about the 40,000,000 people in chronic pain? How many suicides per year from patients being taken off their pain meds?. Also patients can die from opioid withdrawal. Let's talk about that DEA!!!
One important thing that usually doesn’t get mentioned is that you’re constantly asked about your mental health when u r put on opioids. But if you were ever to admit you were depressed from pain and your physical issues, they would claim that you’re high risk of misusing the pills so they would take them away from you. Its crazy.
On a support page I read of a guy who moved to Ecuador because they treat pain with humanity.
I can’t believe this at all, why are these people denied pain management. I‘m Scottish and live in Germany, for the past 14 years I‘ve been treated for the condition of ankylosing spondylitis. The doctors here have been wonderful, I do have chronic pain but thankfully I‘m now on pain meds that help me to lead a normal life. I‘m so thankful for all the doctors who have treated me, between medicine and physical therapy and an understanding family I don’t dread each day.
This story is so true, seems just like my life. I've been on oxycontinfor 5 years and I am an addict. I was lucky to be able to find a dr in CT who understood chronic pain, backed up by ,MRIs,,DexaBone scans, surgery and more. She is my Angel. I was able to go back to work with little pain . As was said in this Documentary , Do i want to be an addict.? No,I just rather be pain free.
There’s a very big difference between “Addiction” and “Dependence” or “Habituation.” And it matters. Especially when opioids are being discussed. Although they’re certainly not the only drug that your body can build a tolerance to. Hell, that can happen with antibiotics and certain strains of bacteria combined with the individual suffering the bacterial infection or disease and their very individual set of systems and symptoms, other disorders or diseases presence…Good Lord, there are so many factors!! Why are so many people making other people’s painful experiences their business or a topic with which they feel it’s okay to confront the sufferer or call them a liar, crazy, drug seeking, addict, awful person, lazy, worthless…Who? Does. That?? I wouldn’t dream of accusing my best friend’s older (not elderly at all…just genetically prone to this, sadly) mother of lying or of being an addict when she had to change medications for her advanced osteoporosis as well as the drugs used for the excruciating and progressively worse physical pain that accompanies that disease. You can hear her bones grinding. 😢 Who am I to say a damned thing? That’s between her and her doctor. Not the esteemed court of public opinion!
Hey folks??? Let’s get some empathy where it would be appropriate!! And bring back empathy training! It begins in the home and should be addressed regularly in the younger grades imo!
The drugs that provide effective treatment and that are accessible in this day and age to relieve pain…which is not easily measured much less measurable at all in a “by comparison” in individuals or groups even if each person in the group suffers the same disorder or
disease…are opioids. Until Big Pharma, Big Insurance and the other “powers that be” begin creating drugs to combat pain as effectively as what’s available and affordable (??) now then it’s cruel and unusual for Doctors not to prescribe them. To gaslight vulnerable people. To turn peoples lives upside down. To force them to lose everything.
It’s despicable.
Sure. Some people may become addicted even though actual chronic pain was diagnosed and was being treated. Chronic pain is grindingly depressing. So it can happen. Treat them. Give them effective treatment instead of the bs offered in “30 Day Programs” and the other “band aids” that don’t often work and are-mostly-out of reach financially for your average citizen. It’s a highly corrupted industry-the “Drug Rehab” machine.
And there are studies to indicate that there are a few potentially fabulous possibilities for revolutionary pain treatment and management that could be developed. Have been for years. Guess who has SHUT that down each time? Brought to you by the big, happy pharmaceutical monopoly near you!! You know…the companies that want us all to think of them as “Family!”
It’s just abhorrent behavior.
God bless these brave, courageous and very strong people in this video. Tysmfs! 🫶🏼🙏🏼
I pray for all of these poor people in such horrible pain...God Bless them all..
It took me 10 years to get a diagnosis. For 10 years doctors told me it was all in my head. It was those insensitive doctors who gave me zero hope who almost caused my suicide. Those doctors need to know THEY could be causing suicide to those suffering and therefore breaking their oath to do no harm.
Where I live, they don’t give pain meds at all. I am a chronic pain patient. Lack of pain medicine has left me bedridden. The doctors tell me I definitely should be on pain medicine, but they don’t give it. I am a medically retired nurse.
What will it take til something is done? No one seems to care, & people are choosing to take their own lives to stop the pain, or becoming heroin addicts.
Shame on us! “First, Do No Harm…” Shame on you, Doctors!!
PS: this was posted two years ago. There has been NO Change.
Thank you for this video. Chronic pain sufferers are not Opioid Abusers! Opioids are the only way to get some relief! These medications are the only way some patients can function on a daily basis. Many still have to work and function at the same pace as a painless person.
Those DEA agents should be forced to sit and listen to chronic pain patients for a couple of hours
Omg I am so sorry for your loss. We are discriminated against, because we are sick.I wished the Drs and Pharmacist had the pain we have. God bless you sweetheart.Pray for me and I for you❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
It shows a Pain Support group in Chicago. There used to be one in Rockford, but not any more. It's hard to be alone in this.
Great, great job. This needs to be shared across all social media channels. This documentary helps to educate viewers about the challenges people in pain face every day - not only with their pain, but trying to access medically necessary medications and treatments.
I lived with chronic pain for the last 14 years. I just had four discs replaced in my neck and I am a new person. I relate to everything in this piece!
My bf has 5 herniated disc's for a yr and half..they give him nothing. Workers comp denies everything even surgery. He's a veteran and has to suffer. No one should be forced to suffer
I am so sorry for your abysmal health care system. I live in Australia, live with multiple sites of permanent chronic pain, the result of an horrific car smash many years ago. I have had several back surgeries, have an artificial ankle, a fused ankle and an artificial elbow. All sites are now full of arthritis and I am reduced to hobbling awkwardly with a stick, or using my wheelchair. My doctor of 30 years has seen me through multiple surgeries, pain management clinics and long term opiod use. I am not an addict, I am treating pain. My pain is reduced to a manageable level; without meds I am bed bound. Chronic pain leads to depression, further limiting life. I am not happy, I am not pain free, but I do not have to fight the system for meds.
Excellent Special- Something has to change to address PAIN PATIENTS NEEDS and the narcotics that help them live.
I've been looking for a documentary like this. I'm a chronic pain sufferer. Some days I'm more pain than I'm me. I'll probably end up committing suicide one day, just to get relief. It's a coping mechanism.
OMG! Please hang in there as long as you can. I understand your suffering. I have been battling Rheumatoid Arthritis for 35 years. I currently take Hydrocodone for the pain. I have a wonderful doctor, but my pharmacy is a different story. They are constantly out of my medication. I waited for 2 weeks to fill my last prescription. I turned to Kratom during those 2 weeks. Please remember that you are valued. Your life means something. God Bless.
❤
I feel you.❤
Fibromyalgia suffererer here.Im an upbeat person by nature and I've considered suicide twice . It's horrible.
I’m grateful for the M.A.I.D option in Canada. I’m in the same cycle of being denied the medication that works for my spinal stenosis pain, so I will avail myself of this service once it becomes completely unbearable. It will be shockingly easier to end my life rather than get the pain relief I need.
How sad eh?try LDN before u give up please.
September 2023 🚨 ITS WORSE THAN EVER !!! I’m in bed most all day everyday. NE OHIO HELL 🔥 No one will help me w the Opioids I desperately need 😭😫
God bless and keep you. I understand and will pray everyday for all of us. ❤
It is very hard to be in pain all the time. I haven't been without pain for over 24 years, Half my life and it is only getting worse with age. I don't have 24 hours or night and day. I have windows of a few hours at a time when I may or may not be able to do anything. I never know what I will get when I wake up and open my eyes. Noone understands.
I do... Completely❤️👍🏻
So misunderstood.
I have been on opiates since 1996 when I participated in roxicodone study in Chicago...i recently had triple bypass surgery and a pacemaker placed... upon release, I was told to take Tylenol or contact my pain Dr....I had ti advocate to receive just my regular pain meds... nothing extra was given ..I have never had meds filled early or failed a urine ... however, I was made to feel less than by a Dr ..it is humiliating and I wish less common
Thank you
This situation needs addressed imo.
This was a great video! The only think I wish was stressed is the multi disciplinary approach. This includes opioids. Also there are folks who have done all the approaches or doing the approach that still need the opioid. Absolutely loved this video. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this.
Agree ❤
I agree!! I never used drugs in college or after. But I was in a horrible crash and was injured. My leg actually actually came out the socket. I had to lay flat for months , then crutches for 6 months. I had an older surgeon with 40 plus years of experience, he was great . Then in my early 50’s, I had a ruptured disc and 4 months later I had another one. That’s when I was sent to a pain management doctor.
I have chronic pain from an acute, progressive disease. The only way to be diagnosed is through surgery so most go years without a diagnosis. There's the pain that is always there, then the shredding of new growth and cysts, the acute. Secondary chronic pain...I can't take anything to control the growth of Endometriosis, so it is overtaking my organs. Many sufferers are able to control it with simple birth control. I have had surgeries, but now deal with scar tissue and the endo just grows right back. I am currently doing PT, which is traumatic and painful considering the area involved. Even after 2 years I don't feel any difference! I have changed my diet, nothing inflammatory but nothing helps. I honestly don't understand why 10 mg oxycodone just so I can shower and get some exercise daily is so bad?!
It's not bad. The country gas been gaslit & lied to by d€a, CDC & the medical community.
wow this hits the nail on the head
My heart rate and blood pressure got so high from a flare of CRPS that I was in real danger of stroking out. So severe chronic pain can kill you. It is hard on your body in every way.
I'd try a methadone clinic, I did. I was moving out of state and knew the nightmare of finding a new doctor willing to write for any pain med. I went to a clinic for a few yrs until my doc informed me that he could actually write for my meds. The beauty is methadone works well, is strong, has an amazing half-life, and doesn't make you feel drugged unless you are on too high a dose. It sucks to have to go this route but everyone already thinks you are a drug addict and nobody will take it away from you unless you are non-compliant. Good luck!
Can i ask you if metadhone has byside effects. I was in accident 1997 and i live with pain every day and cant sleep just nothing. My doctors want that I should try metadone but i am afraid of what it does with my mind and body. 30 mg they said i have to take every day. I am skeptic about it. 😮😢
Many have had no other choice. Stinks that it causes so much weight gain & disruptions with hormones though. Glad you found it worked for you though!!!
I take Methadone with oxycodone everyday for pain, I use both in combination in a pill crusher. Seems they work better when crushed.
Right or wrong, I honestly hope and pray all the doctors and so-called specialists that have denied us chronic pain sufferers be it from injuries or any other reason a few years of pain each so that they will then be able to realize and how they will suffer everything from pain to being unbelieve as we have been.
Unfortunately most doctor types, if they or anyone close to them such as their family presents w pain- will be offered proper medication.
But I do understand where you are coming from.
@@markmcallister7076 I and others are offered "proper" medications but then hassled over every little aspect of why we take them.
most of them had to take the injections and multi boosters so karma did come quickly for them
@@gj2986 wasn't speaking of COVID. I want them to understand real pain.
they will know pain@@laurakibben4147
This doc is 2 years old and nothing has been done for patients to this day.
It’s older than that; posted here in 2021 but the website for it has airing dates from 2017-2018.
My back and neck fusion sounds similar to the shot gun pain spreading down the hips into the legs feet
Why anybody really CARES what others put into their own bodies, I’ll never understand. Even if a person IS high as a kite, loves being high as a kite, has zero intentions of stopping- how does that concern YOU?!?!! It’s just crazy.
I see your point (except when it comes to people driving or holding jobs that endanger their safety, or the safety of others ). It seems hypocritical, because Alcohol is something adults may buy in unlimited quantities, no monitoring database, no testing for other drugs first, etc.
I don’t understand something. As a nurse I have heard that med students aren’t trained in psychology, communication, autoimmune disorders, pain mgmt, and many other subjects. What are they taught? Heart disease, diabetes, hypertension. That’s about it as far as I can see. Hospice doctors are the most helpful, caring, and pain mgmt. If I make it to hospice care I will be happy.
Interns and residents are now being taught that opioids and narcotics are harmful, and that people in pain are drug seekers. That’s about it.
They sure as heck aren’t trained in nutrition, either. But then again big pharma owns all medical schools so they teach what they are told to teach.
As an RN for 30 years, I can tell you that the idea of drug seeking patients existed before the shift that occurred roughly 10 to 12 years ago and how we treat pain here in the US.
However, the 5th vital sign is still the 5th vital sign. Pain is what the patient says it is. What has been missing from the beginning is proper education on the drug and its side effects. Patients would not mind "0" refills if they knew they were going to be treated right and nor would they mind the additional visits, provided they were treated right. The issue today is that the pharmacist seems to have more power than the MD when it comes to the dispensing of medications. Where does that power come from and who gave it to them?
Yes welcome to the world of pure pain in body. Feeling guilty of being into pain. Endlessly.
I feel for every person who is experiencing chronic pain and is denied relief. This denial is not just with pain medications, but also for some of us who need a specific type of thyroid medication and are denied it altogether or are not allowed to have an upper level dose that works and enables us to live a decent life without chronic fatigue. It’s shameful. It’s insurance.
I have rheumatoid arthritis, since i was 20, pain all over body, ive taken shots, humira, embrel, pain meds, mexatrate, now im 56, i take rinvoq, seems to be working, less, pain, bottle has scary side effects, but i have to take 1 pill a day, if i stop taking it, i feel like im 80 years old, have no choice.
I also suffer from RA. I was diagnosed in my 20’s. I’m now 56. I turned to Kratom for relief. I’ve had some success with it. When you’re desperate for relief, you’ll try anything.
I AM 80 years old plus one, I have osteoporosis, psoriatic arthritis, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. I live alone, have little support, and I am managing on Tylenol, Ativan for anxiety and Restoril for sleep. I’ve been offered Methotrexate for the arthritis, and Boniva for osteoporosis. I’m fearful of the side effects. The chronic fatigue is the most debilitating. Thanks for listening. I know there are many folks like me only worse. I’m a retired visiting home health care nurse and I’ve seen about 30 years of chronic pain sufferers. Sad but true and very real. Now I join the ranks. I’m lucky to have worked until I was 75. I’m grateful for what I do have. God bless us all.
I have severe neck and spine pain from several car accidents, PTSD, insomnia, depression and anxiety. Just diagnosed with autoimmune disease with further testing to follow up. I only sleep 3 hrs a night because ice had newer symptoms pop up. Going through perimenopause due to insomnia jaw pain due to grinding my teeth. I feel like I’m dying and I’m seeking non prescription pain management because I’m looking to heal from what is causing my pain but I still very much understand what is being said here and I’m glad more people are speaking out. I’m having problems at work because of it and it’s exhausting to be constantly sick and feeling like I have to explain myself to people who don’t understand. They might have one of my self but I have several and that makes it worse. I don’t want to compare but it’s not the same as having just one limb being in pain. It’s widespread.
Try LDN.Pls look up.Its worth a try.Fight to get it.
I understand very well
I live with pain since 1997 from an accident. My life is destroyed also? 😮😢😢
I too had a accident in 2002, it has ruined my life, have been disabled with head and spine injury, the pain never stops. My heart goes out to you Susanne.
I can’t believe the lady had interstitial cystitis. I have had that since I was a kid, and it’s finally on the disability list, that’s how my chronic pain started, but then I was in 3 car wrecks and so I have had injuries on top of interstitial cystitis and Ulcerative colitis, and endometriosis, and then last year I had thyroid cancer that had attached to my laryngeal nerve and cost me my vocal cord because they ignored that I said I was choking. The Er treated me like crap, I needed help for my choking and severe hoarseness, they could have found it by scoping my throat like my new ent found in 5 minutes, after scoping my throat. But they just blew me off.
ALL Dr`s ,and elected officials , and the "MEDIA" has done this to pain patients !
So true But we have to "be careful".. They might LABEL us as Conspiracy theorists next!!👍🏻🤬
@@DMV8662 and the C D C is the "conspirator" !
MDs have to work within a system of rules and laws. If not they risk losing their license and career or worse. Look to those who control legislation and not just govt.
Thank you so much for this information. I’ve have lived with pain 24/7 for 13 years and more than once I’ve close to giving up on life, it’s simply not worth it. But I’m still curious and want to see what happens with my grandchildren especially so I soldier on and try to live with the pain 😩
This is so true. Yeah, I've heard the it's in your head and because you have people against you. I have chronic pain I deal with every day. I try to live like a normal person, and I don't even tell anyone about my pain. I don't want to because I don't want to be labeled. I don't like even calling my dr. to bother them because of my pain. And definitely do not every want to get married again. I'd rather be alone.
I totally agree with you. Hang in there.
@user-us5pv8zw3z you hang in there, too.
The reality of chronic pain was wonderfully expressed by all interviewed. I well know that chronic pain self care takes so much time, $ and energy that it is no wonder us humans feel like giving up. These are the things that keep me continue in to live…CBT (talk therapy) ACT (behavioural therapy), my hubby/family/friends, a daily gratitude journal, and faith 🇨🇦 ❤
Pain, chronic long term pain like dementia robs you of the ability to be you. What you were becomes a distant memory with occasional flashes of lucidity then sadness as you try to hold on to those flashbacks of the distant you. Getting the right medication that works for you does not bring back what you have lost, but you begin to function somewhat and can, at last, for longer periods of time focus on routine distractions that get you through another day.
Yasss this is the truth. Always treated like you're just looking for drugs. When u just want to be ok.
Thank you so much for this! So many of us are in so much pain and are suffering every day 💔
Thank you so much for this video. Bravo to all the beautiful good hearted Dr's speaking up. Blessings from Australia 🌷
I have terminal or long term pain n i been on the same medication for 15yrs but now they cut it to 90 tablets so i lay in pain and then i jave to sign a contract i dont even understand because im on disability n have some comprehension leaning difficulties then i was told that US ME ANYONE ON MEDICATION FOR PAIN CHRONIC PAIN WE WILL BE OFF THE MEDS IN THE NEAR FUTURE SO PATIENT'S WITH URGENT NEED LIKE CANCER OR ACCIDENT ETC THAT'S WHO THE PAIN MEDS HAVE TO BE RESERVED FOR SO BASICALLY THEY PICK N CHOOSE WHO CAN OR WILL BE ABLE TO RECEIVE PAIN MEDS 🥺🥺
What a disgrace, 8 years for disabilities. These Drs need to experience pain them selves to under stand what chronic pain is.
I also had a pain magement that was raided twice and was found not-guilty both times!!!
So was mine but the Doctors who owned it went down....
stigma is the word! Too bad ppl did wrong now we all pay the Price !!😊
55:50. Yes. It is exhausting. Absolutely.
This is everything. I understand that opioids can be problematic but you can't just pull the plug and leave people without relief. If opioids need to be taken off shelves then you have to put something in its place.
Oh, btw I had cancer, they still didn't give pain meds.
It was my Dr that took his life! My life hasn't been the same because if dea raid. This special came just a couple months too late for him. He was the kindest wisest man i have met in my 32 years pain journey. It hurt me so badly that i refuse to look for another dr and have been slowly wasting away the last 2 years. I doubt id ever be able to find a dr in Virginia
I live in VA. You probably won't find anyone. I have had all kinds of anesthetic blocks, PT, etc. etc. I also have significant osteoporosis, so I have had 2 significantly fractures in less than a year. And they won't heal. I also have migraines. The only medication that works is Qulipta, priced at $1,024.00 for a 30 day supply.
I never dreamed my life would be like this.
@@sarahalbers5555 dang that's a shame. Yes there will never be a Dr like I had in Lexington. I was lucky enough that he kept me going for 10 years. Even today after 2 years when I Google what he did he is the only Dr that comes up!
After I had a grade 4 tear and 27 stitches after giving birth I was in so much pain, the doctor said "sorry we need to send you home," after only 1 day in the hospital. When I asked for meds to take with me she said, "you do know there's a drug epidemic right?" I couldn't believe my ears. So sorry to everyone who lives in pain daily.
I've been in pain for 25 years. My pain management doctor use to help me quite a bit. But the DEA started arresting pain doctors accusing them of giving to much. Now most pain doctors will give very minimal amount of pain medication or they won't give any at all. Get the government out of our doctors business.
No one deserves to have to live like that. At age 76 I'm still madef to be pill shopping by doctors. I've had cancer,
nerve damage and a list of other issues. At no time was I a drug abuser etc. Truth be told I'm anti pills. But pain is a very much a part of my life.
Doctors should not so narrow minded. Being doctors they should pain is real. What are they thinking?
M
As a long term chronic pain sufferer without my medication I wouldn’t survive. I worked hurt most of my life. I’ve been in several horrific work related accidents and motor vehicle wrecks. I was always coerced to return to work or lose my job. I worked on crutches many times. I made it through the opioid purge because the evidence far outweighed their lies about chronic pain. I reduced mine and found out how hard it was to even lower your own dose slowly. It was a two year nightmare and I’m still not feeling well. Having a dependency is not a addiction. Many many people were killed by having their pain medications taken away with no help with the withdrawals. My medication makes me a target for people to claim drug addiction as your only problem.
I don’t even need to watch this to become disgusted. God help you if you are suffering from a legitimate illness featuring pain as a symptom because in America, a pain sufferer has become persona non grata at every hospital and doctor office across the country.
After decades of chronic pain I've found going to see specialists such as orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons feels like I'm going to court. It's like a PTSD experience. I go to them for help but they always let me down, judge me, lie about things. 25 years of being disabled with chronic spine pain I only met one who I trusted. Only 1. I had to go out of town, fly down to see him. He passed away and I'm very upset that he's gone. I wish I could talk to him. He was really good to me.
I’m living with chronic pain. For almost 1 year now I’m using something called Kratom. I’m almost pain free from using that. You have to take something for constipation with, just as almost everyone who take opioids has to do, since the medicine make your peristaltic function to slow down. Other than that small complication it’s a big relief from the pain!
I was just going to ask if anyone here has tried kratom. Bc I’ve seen lives changed with kratom for pain relief . Plus there’s many different strains as well so if one strain doesn’t work for you then you can try a different one.
Thank You So Much For Covering This Issue. The Government Needs To Stay Out Of My Drs Office, It’s A Miracle That I’m Here Today. It Is Outrageous How Much It Costs Me To Keep A Pain Management Doctor From Federal Regulations. They Have No Business In Our Healthcare And Our Suffering!
As a Veteran who was cut off meds of 17 years within two weeks? We are disposable
I'm so so sorry what abhorrent treatment. Thank you for your service, vets should be top priority & get whatever they need to make their lives better!
Thank you so much for doing this documentary. This information is so important and fact that people don’t ever look at this side because of our ridiculous system!!
Going to show my Dr. ❣ Thank you for sharing . 🙏🏼❤✌🏼
Excellent video
I forgot what it’s like not to have chronic pain. Failed back surgery syndrome stemming from L4-S1 herniation, widespread arthritis, DDD, stenosis, degenerative scoliosis and nerve damage. RA, fibromyalgia and hidradenitis suppurativa which is a horrific painful and disfiguring autoimmune skin disease. I’m blessed to have a great pain specialist who really cares. I have a pump and spinal cord stimulator and oral meds for break thru pain as well as others to treat everything else. Dumped by ex husband that said I was broken after 20 years and a narcissist ex boyfriend that preyed on my vulnerability. It’s heartbreaking to see so many people suffering needlessly.
I can’t speak about anyone else’s pain, only my own as a Polio survivor. It was originally called Infantile Paralysis before 1955, when Dr. Jonas Salk developed the vaccine for it. Born in late ‘52, I contracted it before 1955, as did my sister-in-law. It deformed her feet, but she has no pain, even now at age 72. But it affected the Dorsal Lumbar of my spine…the small of my back. I wasn’t diagnosed as having had it till the age of 16, when my bones had grown large enough. An Osteopath gave me the diagnosis after taking x-rays of my back and measuring the length and circumference of my legs and arms. My left side was clearly smaller in bone and muscle mass, but it’s not even noticeable to anyone unless I point it out by having them look just above my knees. The largest circumference is, of course, my thighs, which are different by one inch. I usually only wear stretch pants, rarely slacks off jeans, because I feel the difference. The left side is always looser.
So I’ve lived with low back pain all my life, thought I found yoga very helpful. Had I maintained that, I would likely be better off. About 4 years ago, I was diagnosed with Degenerative Disc Disease and Ankylosing Spondylitis (curvature of the spine), after some heavy lifting at work and a lot of resulting pain. That was the last job I had.
I’m now 71 and have more pain in my back, as well as my hips and knees are wearing out. I found a “Functional Medicine” office that does various types of Physical Therapies, and offers Herbal Medicines, and has a regular MD who runs this operation. And this is where I found complete, though temporary relief, because it involves my spine. I only had to pay the usual co-pay for a Specialist per my Med Insurance Provider.
The treatment is called SOFT TISSUE MOBILIZATION. I don’t know if pain is held in bones, unless a person has Osteomyolitis…a bone infection. But what I’m certain of is that pain is held in the Soft Tissues of the body - muscles, ligaments, tendons, etc. - anything that is not bone. This was a relatively simple treatment to loosen up the soft tissues surrounding my spine….removing the stiffness. After she was done with the manual manipulation of the sore area, she used a Percussion Massager, which is different than a regular vibrating massager. This operates more like a hammer for Deep Tissue Massage, and it’s powerful. I was told to drink plenty of water afterwards, too. I woke up the next day with zero pain, and none for about 4 days. But the good thing is 1) you can DIY it if you can reach the injured area, and 2) Percussions Massagers are now widely available and wildly popular. I also use it on my lower legs to stimulate circulation.
My sweet daughter bought me an adjustable bed, like a hospital bed, but with a double mattress, and let me pick out the mattress. I like it firm, so one with springs inside was important….no memory foam mattress for me. I sleep on my back with the legs raised as far as they can go and sleep great all night. The only pain med I use is Acetaminophen - but Arthritis Strength formula at 650 mg…and maybe two….and only when I go to bed.
I’m having trouble knowing if pain resides in the bones themselves, unless there’s no cartilage left and they’re rubbing together. Surely, I have nerve damage in my spine, and that, too, is a soft tissue, but I don’t think a nerve can be repaired, only extracted, I think.
I’ve only explained my experience in the hopes that these suffering folks might benefit from the same kind of treatment. Suffering finds most of us at one time or another, and there are plenty of ways to experience Trauma, to both the mind and body.
I am the next person. Went in for a lower back fusion. Due to a math mistake I was only given 10% of the pain meds I was supposed to be on for the surgery which caused my heart to beat like crazy, which caused them to rush through the surgery. They didn’t discover their math mistake for 5 days. I have failed back surgery syndrome, drop foot, and degenerative disc disease. Every doctor has told me I’m broken and will be for life and the pain will only get worse. The DEA limit on narcotics has relegated me to spending 7 years screaming out in pain on the couch. Now due to missing too many appointments because my doctor is a 6 hour round trip and with Covid and car trouble missing three appointments was inevitable. My regular doctor won’t refill my meds because I use medical cannabis. So they left me to detox and die with not so much as two fucks given.
I cannot listen to this! It brings back the 24/7 pain I had awaiting hip replacements for 81 days. The pain was not the worse I have had by any means (no medication after knee replacement 10 years earlier is my 100 ) BUT EVERY CONSCIOUS MOMENT HAVING TO SUFFER WHILE WORKING, RAISING A FAMILY, falling down at work, trying to hobble my way to a rest room before I pissed my pants, friends smiling and wanting me to participate in activities and all I wanted to do was go home and take Ambien. Chronic pain is a horror. I thought about suicide and I had an end in sight.
I understand what you are going through, I am going through the same thing. It has been over 3 months since I fell and hurt my knee and which caused my hip to become unstable also. Because of diabetes the first surgeon says that he will not fix my hip until I get my A1c down to 7.0 and lose some weight.
I gave up a long time ago trying to get prescriptions.
I just made friends with some homeless and got some myself.
They may not be as consistent but they work just fine.
And they're hella cheap.
I been on pain meds 27 years, starting when i was 35, and I've never been addicted. I had two horrible brain operations, cutting out a half inch of bone from ear to ear, sliced off all the vertebrates, put a 4x4-inch Teflon pad in the back of my skull just so i could get relief from headaches. I have a nature center in my backyard that's alot of work, and without any help, I do everything myself with the help of the pain meds i get each month.
The DEA, CDC, need to stay out of our doctors office, and let the pain doctors do their work.
I remember watching a documentary on pain and those who wanted to un-aliving themselves at least 20 yrs ago,… I thought to myself, how can that be !?
Close to 60 now, I’m all too familiar in my understanding & challenges of chronic pain,… Much too scared of death to do anything about it, but I sure do look forward to those scattered moments when the level is at the very least bearable 😌