Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 11/14/2009

Question
I have had pain in my neck radiating down to my arm for over a week now.The most pain is in my arm and feels like my musles are
being ripped out.It is constant pain with not much relief.
My question is how come all the medicine I have been taking doesn't take the pain away.I've tried Vicodin,Ultram and
Oxycodin.These are pretty stong but fr some reason they don't work on me.Also I can take Ultram and Flexerill together and still nothing.
I just can't seem to get any relief from this pain in my muscles.
My doctor is making me wait another week to see if I get better before sending me for and MRI.I don't think I can wait another week with this pain.
Thanks

Answer
Hi Debbie
Pain is a very complex issue and so can be difficult to manage, this is particularly so if it is linked to direct pressure on nerves. This type of pain is often unresponsive to classical pain killers. Sometimes the use of anticonvulsant type drugs helps along with the tramadol but these require a period of time to take effect.
I'm sorry that you are having this problem but there is little else I can offer in the way of help - I hope it settles quickly but if not then I hope the scan is helpful and leads to successful management of your problem.
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson