What are /r/ChronicPain's favorite Products & Services?

From 3.5 billion Reddit comments

First and foremost, get a new primary doctor. This one is completely worthless even if you weren't already diagnosed. Second, request a copy of your records for yourself because they failed to send (or the doctor ignored what they sent) your medical record. Even the shitty NPs at my primary care office don't deny the likelihood I have fibromyalgia... the one good NP is convinced it's not just fibromyalgia but also lupus. You are diagnosed ffs, its not fucking anxiety 😡😡🤬🤬🤬 I'm so angry on your behalf.

Some things that helped me when I was younger (they don't work anymore, or don't work as well as they used to because my condition got worse from repeated traumas):

Arnica- it's a salve, it's like icyhot but less smell

Biofreeze- it comes in sprays, salves, gels and recently found one that's a patch, it helps much better than icyhot for the muscle pain that comes with fibromyalgia symptoms

Yoga- it USED to help me, it's worth a try if you haven't tried it yet. It especially helped my back once upon a time, worth a shot!

A quality massager- these can be expensive, but this one is amazing and it's on sale again! Just.. don't ever use it close to the spine, it's powerful enough to really knock it out of alignment. Trust me... triggered the worst flare up of my life thus far by accidentally knocking my neck out.

A chiropractor can be your best friend, this one still helps me.

this stuff helped me so much. It comes in salts for the bath, lotion, and body wash forms. You can usually find it at Walmart with the Epsom salt soaks.

These won't take the pain totally away but it could help you manage your symptoms while looking for a doctor who actually deserves their degrees.

Edited a bit to help it be less... chucked together.

That's amazing! My husband and I both need this. Thanks! off to google ��

Edited to add: a quick google search lead me to amazon, where there's even a hydrocodone chapter shirt! ����

Here's their actual website. ����

I assume you've gone thru all these tests and they're negative?

You could get a psychiatric evaluation. I suspect that they will say you are depressed from being sick and will prescribe antidepressants, which can be effective for chronic pain BTW. They might also help the vomiting. And they might suggest therapy on top of it.

You can pursue your own investigation of psych causes. You could look in Dr. John Sarno's works and see if this applies or helps you. You could look into doing your own mind-body work with mindfulness meditation, relaxation and gentle yoga. See Full Catastrophe Living by Kabatt-Zinn. I found it very helpful for dealing with stress.

One more thing to consider: Have you seen an allergist? I have lots of allergies, some really severe, and they can really throw your body out of whack.

You're supposed to replace your mattress about every 8 years. YMMV. Tempur-Pedic supposedly lasts forever, or 25 years. It is important to vacuum your mattress and rotate it. Most mattresses should be flipped, unless you have a pillow top (foam top) mattress.

If your springs are shot there is not much to do except replace it. Toppers aren't going to help.

The best way to buy a mattress is go to the store and lie on it for 10 minutes and see how it feels to you. Is it supporting you evenly? If you lie on your back can you put your hand under your back or is the mattress pressing against your back and supporting it?

Memory foam mattresses have a break in period and they can be too warm in the summer. But they can also be super comfortable. Sleep Number beds, which are air filled, have a high satisfaction rating. I have an inner spring mattress with a 4" foam pillowtop. It's like sleeping on a cloud. I used to sleep on futons but they have gotten too hard for my old joints. There are foam mattresses that get delivered in a box. You take it out and it expands to size. Some people love them, but really, try before you buy.

Given the amount of time you spend in bed you might want a motorized bed like a hospital bed. Tempur-Pedic and Sleep Number have these, other brands are out there too.

Read the Consumer Reports article on how to buy a mattress and watch the video. http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/mattresses/buying-guide

You can find CR magazine in your local library if you want to look at the ratings without buying a subscription.

This one is solid. Workers comp sent me one and it's the first thing other than a tens unit they've sent me for comfort in 6 years. Sometimes I could get biofreeze with the tens pads , but all the other topicals and supplements are on me. I had gone through so many others. It ended up breaking on a fluke but I got one through Walgreens with coupons for under $50 . As a female the large weighted size is great when it needs to wrap around. I really want a weighted a blanket that's a good balance between cool and not too constricting.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003H503IY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_7V9K9VTSWWTR2DPDNXEF

My experience exactly. Although I left many early as they clearly had no clue what they were doing. Have you tried Muldoney's plan for EDS? https://www.amazon.ca/Living-Life-Fullest-Ehlers-Danlos-Syndrome/dp/1478758880

Its highly regarded as a PT resource in the EDS community.

There are plenty of gamers who aren't into going out. I'm sure you will connect with someone who is like that and you guys can play games together and watch Netflix :). I'm a musician and all of my friends in college were homebodies. We had parties at one apartment complex which anyone could sleep at if they wanted. We watched movies, had little concerts, etc. All that stuff was pretty indoorsy and mobility friendly. We never went to museums, concerts, parks, or anything like that.

​

Don't worry, I think you will find your people. Or they will find you. Have you tried meetup.com or similar services? If you join clubs of things you are interested in, you will only have to go out every once in a while to connect. Then just start inviting the people you have made friends with over for movie or game night.

​

Then trap them there forever.

(lol just kidding ^)

Real Relax Massage Chair, Full Body Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Recliner with Bluetooth Heat Foot Roller, FAVOR-03 Plus(Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06W2GYD8Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_glt_fabc_93MXT3NKSVGMXXCMAJ79?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Unfortunately they used fedex and it took weeks to get here and was slightly damaged but not enough for me to send it back, especially since it would have cost me $300... but anyway, it's nice. Massagers all down the back and feet, airbag massagers on the legs too. Usually I would never spend this kind of money on anything, we would never be able to afford it. My pain had been getting worse and worse, pain clinic was giving me the run-around (still is) and then we got the first stimulus check. Discussed it with my husband and he agreed it was a good investment since we both have back issues.

Ok enough is enough lol. This isn't a huge deal or anything but you need to learn how to use reddit. Formatting & proper link usage will go a long way towards your posts not getting ignored and/or downvoted

/r/Reddit101

https://lifehacker.com/a-beginners-guide-to-reddit-1798643829

The link you embedded in this post is a major faux-pas, and makes grumpy redditors even grumpier. Again, nbd, and remember that redditors generally want to use the absolute minimum amount of effort necessary to inform themselves. Suggesting tweets for them is a good way to get yourself verbally assaulted :D

Open enrollment is right now. Plans take effect in January - you must pay for the first month before then. Worth signing up for anyways just in case it stays for a while. https://www.healthcare.gov/quick-guide/dates-and-deadlines/

I am living with fibromyalgia. On a good day my pain is at a 5 out of 10, but most of the time I am at a 7 not moving and an 8.5 standing or walking. I know exactly how you feel. There are days I wish for my old life back.

A great way I have found to distract myself and pull myself out of the vicious pain cycle can be to help others from my laptop computer.

• If you understand twitter you can answer user questions by searching for users that use #140help.
• Then there is http://www.galaxyzoo.org/ where you can help classify pictures from NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. All you do is answer some pretty basic questions, so even if you don't know anything about space you can still help.
• Also, if you enjoy art and graphic design then http://www.colourlovers.com/ is a great place to design patterns, color other peoples patterns, and share them with the community there.

I really hope that these ideas or the other ones shared on this thread help. I know that being in pain day after day can seem hopeless, but hang in there.

UTK Far Infrared Tourmaline Heating Pad for Full Back Pain Relief - Infrared Therapy Heating Pads - Medium T-Plus (38" X 21"), Auto Shut Off and Travel Bag Included https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086PT66KQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_l3GeGbNFTZY3K

You can try Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) through a therapist or get a workbook from Amazon to help some of this.

EMDR via Change Your Brain, Change Your Pain. https://www.amazon.ca/Change-Your-Brain-Pain-ebook/dp/B014K4TZ3Y/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1513554752&sr=8-3-fkmr0&keywords=train+your+brain+emdr

It's supposed to help with the pain...Good Luck

I have toasted skin syndrome from sleeping on my heating pad for the past few YEARS and I get blisters whenever I have it on super high and fall asleep. Trying to be better about it. I have gone through sooooo many heating pads over the years. I highly recommend the Pure Enrichment brand. I just got this fabulously large one! https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B075K1GMJ6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_NEuGCbMVMKEFF

Yes, these two books definitely helped me with the mindset, the bigger picture, help me tackle life. Help me emotionally tackle the pain. They are both books on mindfulness, one more the theory, and my favourite, “The Power of Now”, the other how to then practically use it for pain “Full Catastrophe Living”. They helped thousands of people, the latter is also an actual course taught in Pain Clinics. They are not unfortunately helpful to everyone though. Many more similar books have been written, that might suit you better. These two are just the ones that helped me the most.

I think empathy is always a wonderful thing. You can never go wrong with empathy. HOWEVER, you also have to know your own limits. Bending over backwards for others when you’re mentally or physically exhausted, doesn’t benefit them (or you). Helping others when it doesn’t come from a sincere place in your soul is never a good thing in the long run. So either help others and don’t feel bitter about it later, or know your limits and help only how much you can genuinely emotionally afford at that moment. This takes experience. And it also changes day to day, hour to hour, depending on your health and mood etc. And that’s ok.

Having empathy is a lovely personality trait that will help you immensely in life. You just need to learn how to use it well. Just like any other emotional skill. Mostly by trial and error and learning from mistakes, and learning from books, forums etc.

The pain can do horrendous things to the mind, and it can be the one and only reason you feel so crap. Pain can be a monster. If you let it. However, as those books teach, part of overcoming the mental hold it has over you, is learning how to accept it for what it is. And then take it from there.

I still stand firmly by my first statement: being transgender, emphatic etc is not a part of your problem. Those are fantastic bits of who you are. The pain is the problem. But even that demon can be lived with.

I was 18 when I first hurt my back. For a long time I felt it ruined my life. I deferred Uni, I then dropped out and had no direction. Now I'm doing my PhD, was a teacher for a few years, and am seen as a (relatively) successful person. I would encourage you to read Jon Kabat Zinn's 'Full Catastrophe Living' - it really helped me.

Your life has changed, and will continue to do so, for the rest of your life. Not just due to your injury, but because life does that. Many relationships from teenage years end, and it will be tough. But you got to experience a fucking great relationship with someone - some people never have that. Now, take some time out and concentrate on finding out who you are, what you can do, what you want to do, and what you want. See if your doctor will send you to a pain clinic and look into Slow Release medication, it can help a lot.

Also, if you're UK, I am glad to take a call and let you vent. May seem a bit weird but I've been there, and am 32 now with a much better life than the six years after it happened.

*also, yes, we are playing life on hard mode, there's no doubt about that. We'll always have bad times, for the rest of our lives, it's how we deal with them that matters.

A few computer tips if you also have to deal with photophobia:

• Lower the brightness, and install f.lux on Windows, Redshift under Linux, Twilight under Android. These applications will modify the screen colour so it matches the outside. It's a lot easier on the eyes when it's dark outside, and it also helps if you have trouble sleeping because of bright screens.

• While this is up for debate, modern computer monitors have features to help reduce eye strain. Flicker-free and a high refresh rate of 120/144hz could be helpful. I've tried it myself, but I didn't notice a difference. Maybe if I went back to a regular monitor my eyeballs would scream, who knows.

• If you need to speak on the phone while using a computer, try to get a headset. There's nothing worse than squeezing a phone between your shoulder and neck while typing.

A few more various tips:

• Get an eye exam, and make sure that if you are wearing glasses that your prescription is up to date. This can definitely cause headaches.

• If you're also sensitive to sounds, earplugs are your best friend.

• A headache journal(as already suggested) is a good idea as this can help you find triggers. In my case, moving my neck and exercise are my triggers.

• Meditation and relaxation are extremely important tools to relax your body and decreased a headache/migraine. Personally, when it's really bad I lie on my back, with earplugs in my ears, and a blindfold over my eyes and I stay that way until I feel better. If I'm feeling bored, then I'm feeling better. :p

I hear you, and I’m sorry.

I hope you don’t feel patronized if I tell you something that you already know or if you don’t want advice at all. If you want, I can delete my comment.

Have you heard of Spoon Theory? Could you learn how to distribute your energy differently so that you feel less sick and burnt out and more like yourself? (e.g. hiring someone to help you clean or cook once a week?) If you did that, maybe a new job could be more feasible?

Have you heard of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy? A therapist trained in ACT would consider your circumstances and symptoms and teach how to learn to live with the negative instead of making you adopt a more positive attitude like CBT/DBT. ACT is supposed to be better for people living with chronic illness or disability.

> The objective of ACT is not elimination of difficult feelings; rather, it is to be present with what life brings us and to "move toward valued behavior.”

Could you find a therapist who works with chronic pain patients? Perhaps you could benefit from learning more daily living modifications from an occupational therapist or social worker? Maybe your doctor needs to better address your pain management?

I've noticed my back pain gets significantly worse if I don't take breaks, especially since I have a tendency to lean forwards when I'm working intensely. I personally like using the pomodoro method to time my work sessions, but it doesn't really matter what you do as long as you take breaks to change into a different position. During my breaks I usually stretch my neck and shoulders and make sure to double check I'm sitting with correct posture. If I need to I'll lay down on the floor to stretch out my lower back.

Have you heard of MTurk? (https://www.mturk.com/mturk/welcome) It's an amazon product where you do small tasks online at your own pace (though it has a timer usually around an hour or so). The tasks are usually surveys or something similarly small but sometimes there are essays you could write for more money or translations. There are forums dedicated to it (http://www.cloudmebaby.com/forums/index.php) which can help sift through the tasks which are worth it. Hope that helps!

Just chiming in, even though you technically didn’t ask me… I got this massage chair a few months ago and use it every day. It helps so much, esp in the mornings: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HN2WC1D/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_2DD5PMVB5VC0TAZ08RDJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I understand. I'm further down the road from you, but the grieving for my healthy body never really ends. It does slowly, slowly, very slowly get better over time, though. But that is years ... not days or months.

A book that has helped me over the years is this one-

Letting Go of the Person You Used to Be

best wishes to you!

TENs machine is a crap-shoot, sometimes it helps, others not so much. There is a decent TENs unit on Amazon for <$30

I finished a Prednisone course last week, and I am just this moment having to use it again, the back pain is flaring up. I have several discs that are 'obliterated', complicated by diabetic neuropathy and DDS.

"Doctor's Best High Absorption Magnesium Glycinate Lysinate, 100% Chelated, TRACCS, Not Buffered, Headaches, Sleep, Energy, Leg Cramps, Non-GMO, Vegan, Gluten Free, Soy Free, 100 mg, 240 Tablets" on Amazon

I’m a bit confused, the sentence “I’m an emphatic transexual wrapped in pain who’s only value in life is to help others” seems to be full of wonderful positives, except for that one negative, and that is “wrapped in pain”. So the pain is the only thing you need to change there.

Most stories about overcoming pain are highly individual and problem specific. Usually it is a combination of the right kind of meds and medical help, and also a mindset that helps the individual get through it all.

That is how I handle my pains: practically via meds, emotionally via the mindset I got from books like “Full Catastrophe Living”, and “The Power of Now”.

Rainy weather is difficult for those afflicted with arthritis too and they use The Arthritis Index to help predict their pain level. Maybe this could be helpful for you too

https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/arizona-city-az/85123/arthritis-weather/2123763

Agreed. Maybe ask if you can get a second opinion from someone else? I know it can be difficult with specialists sometimes, but there has got to be a second human out there somewhere who has had similar symptoms.

idk if this is OK or whatever, but my googlefu is strong so I did a search .. have you looked into this?

https://www.webmd.com/brain/tc/labyrinthitis-topic-overview#1

Forest bathing can help you feel better. Get outside, get near some trees or plants. I feel so much better after a day in the woods or out on the lake.

I do and I take this magnesium. Some magnesiums absorb better than others, this one is supposed to have a very high absorbtion. Some magnesiums like magnesium oxide are not absorbed as much and so they are good for helping with constipation...not what you want for relaxing muscles.

I feel like it helped a lot when my pain wasn't as bad at the beginning, I still take it daily but as my muscles have gotten worse it only helps so much. Definitely worth a shot!

I bought mine on Amazon for about $30. It was identical to one I saw at a home show that was $200 (but that was the price for "today only! Act now!")

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01F798R0S/

That "smile" link pays a commission to the Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy, but you can search for it instead under B01F798R0S if you use your own smile link.

What about something like this?

Do what you need to do to keep yourself mobile and safe.

Walkers or some canes have a seat for when you need it.

I use my handicap placard some days and other days I don't based on how my hip feels in that moment (flared or not). My mom walks by herself, uses a cane, uses a walker and a wheelchair. She chooses based on how she feels and what the activity will be.

What kind of pain is it? Is it isolated to your back or does it radiate (down your arms/legs)? There are certain body mechanics that can help-physical therapy is a good place to start. They can teach you certain exercises and stretches that can help. Regardless, you should probably see a doctor to make sure it's nothing serious, then they can guide you as to next steps. In the meantime, heat always made my back feel better (others prefer ice, so see what's best for you!). Over the counter anti-inflammatories (Naproxen, ibuprofen) can help-it's worth a shot. If your desk at work isn't great, there are cushions you can buy on amazon (like this one that will help with keeping your posture and give you additional support. Remember to try and take breaks when you're working (I'm guilty of this, too). Sitting for hours on end at a desk can do a number on your back, so even if it's just to get up and stand for a few minutes, it will help.

That's all I can think of for now, I'll comment again if anything else comes to mind. I've been there-I know how much it sucks. Sorry to hear you're going through this. Hope you find the relief you're looking for!

Edit: spelling

Look for a lumbar support pillow. You're gonna look weird carrying it around but it supports your lower back and it will help with the pain from sitting in the chairs in classrooms. I use it everywhere, car, classes, library etc.

I use this one personally: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IJNJAZ0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_0BMJzb92CBH25

Try Tiger Balm. It's another cream similar to icy hot but works better for me.

I have a tens unit from Amazon that works pretty well for a battery powered one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NCRE4GO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_NEMJzb3SXNPQ5

Also an electric heating pad and reusable ice pack or if your dorm has an ice maker like mine a reusable bag for ice depending on what works better for your back.

Get a good backpack. Something with a sternum strap and a hip strap if possible so that the weight is more evenly distributed. Also, I never carry anything other than exactly what I need for class to keep the weight down and try to buy as many textbooks as possible on Kindle so that there's less weight there as well.

A good mattress pad if you're in the dorm so that you can supplement the mattress with one that's better for your back. They can get expensive (Mine was about $100) but it's an investment in your health.

A good pair of inserts in your shoes from Roadrunner, an orthopedic doctor, or a similar store where they mold to your feet has truly helped my pain a lot. I stick them in the pair I'm wearing for the day and I'm good to go.

That's bullshit that they won't cover Lyrica.

Generally, though, they won't cover it as a "first line" medication, but they will if the first line doesn't work, ie the gabapentin. Lyrica also has a good anti-anxiety component, so theoretically you could switch completely and have both the fibromyalgia and anxiety treated under one Lyrica prescription. Maybe ask your fibro doctor to submit a request for the Lyrica since the gabapentin isn't touching your pain levels.

I'm glad cannabis is working for you and your office will start offering cards. That's great.

Do you have roaming pain or global pain? If roaming spot pain, you could try getting a TENS unit to get you through. They're affordable on Amazon now: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NCRE4GO

This is my doctors advice to me - "Just get one on amazon".

He said that there really isn't a reason to pay a lot of money for a fancy machine when the regular quality ones for home use work fine. This is the unit that I have been using and it works fine for me. But my only comparison is to the extra fancy ones they have at the chiro office. I hope it helps!

Wow. Thanks for posting this. I'd never heard of it, but after a little digging I just searched Amazon US and found that Kate Lorig, the originator of this program, is the author of a book called <em>Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions</em> and is also listed as one of the authors of <em>Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Pain</em>. I have no way of knowing, but I wonder if they might follow the same methodology as her course...

On Amazon US, there is a book called Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions by Kate Lorig, the person who created the original program at Stanford, as well as a book called <em>Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Pain</em> which also lists her as an author.

Man's Search for Meaning: Viktor Frankl. Pain I can and have lived with, but for me it's the crushing loss of HOPE that has been so devastating. Reading Frankl who as a Holocaust survivor, knows suffering was one of the first times I felt my pain and suffering was being looked at and addressed with the care and concern it deserves. He was a survivor who developed a theory while in a concentration camp... Reading Frankl has reawakened me to hope, without hope we perish. Well here is longish quote from wikipedia....

Frankl concludes that the meaning of life is found in every moment of living; life never ceases to have meaning, even in suffering and death. In a group therapy session during a mass fast inflicted on the camp's inmates trying to protect an anonymous fellow inmate from fatal retribution by authorities, Frankl offered the thought that for everyone in a dire condition there is someone looking down, a friend, family member, or even God, who would expect not to be disappointed. Frankl concludes from his experience that a prisoner's psychological reactions are not solely the result of the conditions of his life, but also from the freedom of choice he always has even in severe suffering. The inner hold a prisoner has on his spiritual self relies on having a hope in the future, and that once a prisoner loses that hope, he is doomed.

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Man's_Search_for_Meaning#section_1

I've found My Pain Diary to be really helpful, it's has a weather bit too but not a medication reminder.

It takes a while to get used to it and it is intentionally very basic, however once you fill it in with specific symptoms/triggers/locations/remedies etc. for you it is very easy. It can also create a pdf that you can print for your doctor to show them very easily how the pain has been over the time period you set.

They mostly do the same job though, really.

r/findareddit will probably know about one if it exists, if not you can always make one. I do like https://weather.com/maps/health/achesandpains for a map, although it's not always exactly right in my experience and sometimes it disappears for whatever reason.

Hi there, friend! I spend 12 to 14 hours a day in Serta's Office Chair. It is a bit expensive but it has been a godsend to my back.

Actually, you might have Complex Regional Pain syndrome (related to fibro, I imagine as the guy or girl had suggested it), and it typically affects and arm or a leg. This exactly describes your symptoms in my opinion (not a doctor, not medical advice), and honestly, your doctors don't sound so ideal, or even competent enough to accurately diagnose you if it takes that much time to figure it out; not ripping on your or anything, but there are definitely doctors who are much better out there. Of course, confirm with the doctor if it's CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome - actually, this acronym, even chronic pain patients shudder when they see this as this is a really painful syndrome), but if I'm right, that really says something about not only those two doctors, but how pain patients might actually be more competent (honestly, wishful thinking as I know how educated doctors are) than doctors in terms of pain and pain knowledge, and of course that would be embarrassing for them as they're actual medical professionals with the degrees and the board certifications.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/complex-regional-pain-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20371151

But like the other poster, see a rheumatologist and a pain management specialist. The former is for proper diagnosis, while the latter only treats your pain (and if you've made the committment in your head if you decide to go with opioids as your pain management route, as dependency, not addiction, is expected, especially as one's at risk for suffering through withdrawals if siddenly cut off) despite knowing pain disorders.

While they are probably nothing, just some small fatty lipomas (don't google image search it, they're usually much smaller than that). If that is what they are, they can usually be ignored unless they are causing issues. I still would recommend you have your check out them next time you have an appointment.

This post should not be taken as a substitute for medical advice, I'm not a doctor.

Demand a central line. You might have to see a surgeon or go to the hospital to get one. Most doctors offices won't do that procedure in house. But the fact you don't have one already is absolutely mind-boggling to me.

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/tc/central-venous-catheters-topic-overview

7 Day 4 Compartment Pill Organizer DEEP One Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000E13BVA/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_bi8Ytb04T5PZ1DAE

I swear by this. Since I started using it I haven't run out of pills once. And, I like that I can take just one day's pills with me, especially when I go to work.

Another idea: does your pharmacy have auto-refill?

Sorry you are having a crappy time without your meds. Hang in there and internet hugs!

I've asked this before, and I've tried just about all the apps on the iOS app store. The one I had the best luck with was Track and React from Arthritis.org, but it didn't export the way I wanted, so I ended up just adding notes.

If my hands worked better, I'd work on building one. I really want something that'd pull in local weather and map that against pain levels.

It'd also be nice if it'd map in to healthkit, or if they just gave us the fields to add it in ourselves. I just submitted an enhancement request for it at https://www.apple.com/feedback/iphone.html

That's super well evidence based, except for his theory about the mechanism (that probably plays a role but is just one piece of a bigger picture). NOI Group's Explain Pain book goes over all the solid literature on chronic pain and explains how it works on a neurobiological level, with treatment recommendations that are very practical but can be counter-intuitive. You might be familiar with ACEs, or Adverse Childhood Experiences. Childhood trauma is directly linked to an increased risk of health issues and other negative outcomes later in life, chronic pain being one of the bigger and more common issues faced.

I have conversion disorder and complex chronic pain, so the link in my case is explicit and very direct. My treatment team and I agree that I almost certainly would not have chronic pain and disability if I hadn't experienced so much trauma earlier in my life, all it took was an emotionally difficult accident that by all accounts I should have bounced right back from. I was super fit and healthy, an ideal patient in terms of doing my treatment and physio, and the injury itself was relatively minor. However that's all it took to push my nervous system over the edge into indefinite dysfunction and wildly out of control pain.

3 1/2 years later and I'm still refusing to give up even though I'm all full time power chair user now and it often seems like my body is just literally haunted by a mean ghost ¯\(ツ)/¯

My PCP once suggested a wrist brace for sleeping, when I told him I'd woken up from the pain several times over the previous month. The $8.50 model from the local cheap pharmacy chain worked quite well until the Velcro stopped sticking after about 18 months.

The things do work, even the basic models (one Velcro strap going one way in the middle, two more on top and bottom going the other way, and a minimum amount of stretchy fabric).

I can't suggest what to do about the rest of your body, because (insert usual "I am not a doctor" message here), other than to suggest you ask your PCP for a referral to either a pain doctor or, preferably, a rheumatologist.

Oh, and long soaks in hot baths do help, really. It's kind of hard to do art when soaking wet, though.

As a side note, I ran across a short movie (ca. 1915) of Renoir painting. He had severe, painful rheumatoid arthritis, to the point where someone would have to place a brush in his hand before he could paint, his fingers were so stiff and almost useless. It is nice to know that art can still be made when you're his age and massively crippled. Renoir at work

You need medication or supplements too.

I find white rice is very bland and easy to deal with. Don't put anything on it except a little salt and maybe a tiny bit of oil or butter. When I had a severe attack I ate mostly liquids. So broth, bone broth, miso soup, chicken noodle soup, protein shakes, soy milk, green tea, herbal tea. Water. No fruit, no fruit juice, it's too acidic. Also eat smaller meals more frequently. I find I get full really easily during an attack. I also avoided insoluble fiber, soluble fiber seems to be okay. If you get constipated on the bland diet then something like MiraLax is helpful. Once you get past the worst of your pain you can start expanding your diet.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bile-reflux/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20025548

I also did a lot of Mylanta initially until the PPIs kicked in.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gastritis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355813

I understand how painful this is, like I said, my personal hell started in February but now it's under control most of the time, unless I do something foolish like eat anything with tomato sauce or if I forget to take my pill. Long term I am hoping to improve my gut health thru probiotics and proper diet. My doc prescribed probiotics and I had to experiment to find one that helped me.

I had tried a lot of the natural remedies like DGL, aloe vera, slippery elm, etc... and didn't have much success. Now I am trying l-glutamine since it is helpful in repairing the gut.

Google "gastritis diet" and see what you can do for yourself.

> if I game on PC using mouse and keyboard, it's kind of torture as well.

I can do single player but my brain damage from a burst brain aneurysm makes it so I cannot think and act fast enough to do multi player.

Just to be a buddy try Battle for Wesnoth. A open source,free single player game with an option for multi but I am never going there. NO premium bullshit just an enjoyable strategy game created for the hell of it. I have played more of it than games that cost 70 dollars like CIV V.

I apologize if this is not what you're looking for, but have you looked at google keep as an option ? It's available on android, and can easily be added to iOS

So I got this pillow to help for my recovery after my spinal fusion last month. This has helped me tremendously!

Bed Wedge Pillow, Adjustable 9 &12 Inch Wedge Pillow for Sleeping, Memory Foam Wedge Pillow with Removable Cover, Folding Incline Cushion for Legs and Back Support, Acid Reflux, Anti Snoring, Reading https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B083K2DDZH/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_VQTYJ6FAD64J08EQHMNK?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

It's adjustable to make the angle different. I use it when I'm sitting up in bed. This is my 2nd spinal fusion and it made a huge difference this time. I was hesitant bc of the price but its totally worth it! Especially for how big it it

I can’t do internal ibuprofen either. Have you tried just getting a heat wrap/heating pad? Are use mine so often. Got it off of Amazon worth every penny. I also use hot or cold rock sauce (same company as rock tape). Which is also sold on Amazon. The heat or cold usually last about an hour or so depending on the area. Little bit cheaper than getting the the disposable wraps.

MIGHTY BLISS Large Electric Heating Pad for Back Pain and Cramps Relief -Extra Large [12"x24"] - Auto Shut Off - Heat Pad with Moist & Dry Heat Therapy Options - Hot Heated Pad https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G2M1LBW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_6QE4KKJKPQ7K1P51K8ZA

RockTape RockSauce Ice Cooling Muscle Relief Gel with Menthol, 3 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013J94D2Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_244W02BEA985KHY4XRCY

Sorry for your trouble. Take some deep breaths, stay calm, and I'm sure you'll find it.

For the future, I recommend attaching one of these to it. You'll be able to find it with your cell phone by making it make noise.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07W63295C/

I muscle armor like a pro. I hope this helps you.

https://www.amazon.com/MEDVIVE-Rechargeable-Management-Electric-Stimulator/dp/B07D5ML4HM/ref=sr\_1\_1\_sspa?dchild=1&amp;keywords=tens+unit&amp;qid=1626693542&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=A8YXBQ7YB5YFQ&amp;spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyW...

This is a hemorrhoid cream that has an internal applicator and contains both lidocaine and a compound that makes the surface blood vessels constrict.

In my ex’s case he ended up with a fissure and as an alternative to surgery he was given a muscle relaxer cream to use on his anal sphincter every 12 hours. Basically the muscles were so tight they ripped the fissure into his flesh.

And a pelvic floor PT can absolutely give you advice based on their exam of your muscles.

I will also say that pain begets muscle spasms and more pain. So relaxing your muscles and using an anesthetic to be in less pain overall will build on each other.

Doctor Butler's Hemorrhoid & Fissure Ointment - Hemorrhoid Treatment with Lidocaine, Aloe Vera, Amino Acids, Essential Oils & Minerals for Fast Acting Itch, Swelling, and Maximum Strength Pain Relief https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B009G6U1AS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_CBENB25DRAN5EDSJ22MS

This is what I used: https://smile.amazon.com/Ebanel-Painkilling-Anesthetic-Hemorrhoid-Discomfort/dp/B019D7MQMK/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&amp;keywords=numb&amp;qid=1625102840&amp;sr=8-4 Not sure if Reddit allows such links, so if it doesn't show, let me know. Good stuff for a lot of things. Trouble is, it doesn't last too long (I recall 20 minutes), but it can be reapplied as often as you like. One jar lasts a good amount of time (6 months for me).

Good luck - I feel for you.

I have a huge D-clip that I used to use to hang bags off my stroller, but I have it on my walker when needed. It holds the bags without slipping, but also has a small basket and seat. Since I'm mostly home, it stays in my kitchen, so I have support while cooking (and a spot to rest).

https://www.amazon.com/Stroller-Carabiner-Organizer-Hanging-Shopping/dp/B07D8Y8FGC

Pain is very complex. It's not always tied to damage. Pain can create a memory in your brain that you keep recalling even after the damage is repaired. Physical pain can be a stand-in for negative emotions or mental distress.

I recommend reading/listening to &quot;Healing Back Pain&quot; by Dr. Sarno. It's not just about back pain, it's about the mind-body connection and how pain can be triggered by environmental stressors/emotions.

I might have a solution for you. I also have a debilitating shoulder injury you can read my post on it if you want. Ive tried everything for the pain but what helped the most was this book Shoulder Pain? The Solution & Prevention, Revised & Expanded https://www.amazon.com/dp/1589096428/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4EZBXDEVTKWAWRDSPGF1 . The jist is hanging from a pull up bar for a few minutes a day and doing some lifting exercises and this shit actually works i swear to god. Look up the study in the book, the treatment has a 98% success rate and has helped me immensely. Goodluck if you need more help or how i structure the program and helps me just shoot me a message.

Is this what you got?

Neck Massager-Neckology Intelligent Portable Neck Massager with Heat for Women Men, Cordless Pulse Massager Equipment with 5 Modes 16 Levels Relax Point Massage for Office Travel Home Use (White) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CV95TFC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_VT2RBHQNP49P5FYHF4PG

I was using one like this for years. Unfortunatly I now have too many large pills to fit in it. I have 3-6 large pills, plus several small pills 4 times a day. I also hate flip top lids because they always get in to way when I try to fill the box (I open all the compartments at once). Still trying to find a new pill box. I am glad you found one though :)

I think this is a nice one, you can adjust the angle for comfort. It’s a bamboo too.

Deal: Laptop Desk Bamboo Laptop Bed Table Bed Desk Bed Tray, Portable Desk Foldable Notebook Computer Sofa Table, Height & Angle Adjustable Lapdesk Lap Desk Table with Drawer for Bed and Sofa Breakfast https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08J7XZ7GR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_6SCMGH46GA1ZGQ23BG03

I get the stomach pain issue one thing that has helped me as I can't wear dresses that often 😂 (mostly because I am male and identify as such) but a stretch belt like this had really helped as while there is a bit of pressure the elasticity helps

Well mine is 10 years old so it’s the first edition, but TENS 7000 2nd Edition Digital TENS Unit With Accessories https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NCRE4GO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_GMCQ89980F23Y0BJP64V is what I have.

I've never been able to find an app that covers all of the information I need to track for my flares and such, but I love this journal. It covers everything and uses the same with tracking pain that my doctors do, they seem to find it pretty helpful.

I'm sorry to hear you're going through so much right now. Chronic pain is bad enough, but eye stuff is just terrifying. I'm glad it's better now, I've had a lot of weird stuff like that that never reoccurred, so I wouldn't worry too much, but if you have lab results or imaging from the time of the infection it might be worth talking to a specialist for your own peace of mind.

I would definitely recommend seeing a rheumatologist and perhaps an immunologist. I was originally diagnosed with fibro even though it didn't explain all of my symptoms. It took a long time to find specialists that cared enough to put in extra work. they eventually figured out that I also had MCTD and MCAS — though a lot of credit goes to r/fibromyalgia for telling me to ask about the latter, I don't think I would have been diagnosed otherwise. I'm fairly new to this sub, but from being on the fibro sub for a long time, I know it's not at all uncommon to have all of your results within normal parameters but still have something wrong. Many of us received diagnosis that aren't easily tested or are diagnosises of exclusion. You might also want you to look at the results yourself or go to a18 university hospital we're a team of doctors will review your case. Sometimes you will have results that are technically within range but show a pattern when viewed alongside other results.

I hope you find answers soon! <3

The neck massager is also infrared and is made by zyllion

Zyllion Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager - Kneading Massage Pillow with Heat for Shoulders, Lower Back, Calf - Use at Home and Car, Black, (ZMA-13-BK) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BOYA2M2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_G6GeGbZK27R3B?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

I have the same exact issue with my belbuca right now. I usually take two pieces of this gum and it brings it down significantly. I really hope this offers you some relief too! https://www.amazon.com/Sea-Band-Anti-Nausea-Ginger-Gum-Pieces/dp/B000VUYQ6I/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&amp;keywords=ginger+gum&amp;qid=1611303305&amp;sprefix=ginger+gum&amp;sr=8-3

I have this one from Body Med. It can get up to 166°F. It can be set to stay on up to an hour and then will automatically shut off. I like it because it gives moist heat rather than dry heat, which I feel penetrates better for deeper pain, especially muscle pain.

Drawbacks are that the cord isn't very long and that the display does not light up so it's annoying to adjust in the dark.

So that’s a 3 months supply I gather? And you’re right. This seems like a good deal though, 15 for $17. HealthWise Maximum Strength Pain Relief 4% Lidocaine Patch, 15 Count, Dustmop-399 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CJH7Z3R/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_1-p7FbHXSB9H2

My issue with the patches is even if they work the otc ones always fucking fall off and don’t last for shit.

Sunbeam makes one for neck, shoulders and upper back. It isn't cheap, bt it is the best I've ever owned ad I have gifted some to family and they love them to. The link posted is Amazon, however many large drug stores sell them as well. Note the way it is made. The collar has a strong magnetc clasp if you want to use itthat way.

https://www.amazon.com/Sunbeam-Renue-Heat-Therapy-Wrap/dp/B00LX5CR0M/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1483646253&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=Sunbeam%2BRenue%2BHeating%2BPad%2BX-Large&amp;th=1

I highly recommend this mattress:

Sleep Innovations Shiloh 12-inch Memory Foam Mattress

Qualifications: have had herniated disk surgery and purchased multiple of this mattress. I bought the first one as a guest bed -- my primary was a more expensive latex mattress from Ikea. But I quickly swapped them and used this one from Amazon as my primary. I've since purchased more and have had family members purchase them.

In theory, Costco has a very similar mattress that is basically the same thing for a little bit more. So if you don't want to deal with Amazon, it's an option.

My preference is to use that mattress on top of Ikea slates like these:

Lonset slatted bed base

My next project is to build my own bed frame that uses these slats as I'm not that crazy about the Ikea bed frames.

I have EDS and have been having this exact problem with my hip (si joint). One of them is way higher and making that legs shorter, so my other hip is taking all the impact of walking. My chiro has ordered me orthotic inserts, but I haven't got them yet. One thing that has helped, though, is an Si joint belt I got from Amazon. It was just a $25 one, but it does help keep my SI joints stable and reduces pain. It won't negatively affect muscle tone. Maybe that could help you?

Edit: this is the one I got.

You may appreciate this book ... I found it helpful with this issue ...

https://www.amazon.com/Letting-Person-You-Used-Transformation/dp/0767908740

I have been looking into these as well, this one on amazon would be in your price range and from the reviews looks to be a good option.

I’m curious if you end up purchasing one how you like it. Or if you have different ones in mind. Good luck in your search.

I got my patches at a pharmacy/chemist. You can get them online as well. Amazon is pretty universal. I like the salonpas patches instead of icyhot ones but there’s lots of brands. To get strong ones (5% lidocaine), you may need a prescription. There are some I’ve had my eye on that are over the counter (no prescription needed) that are 4%, which is the highest I’ve seen without a prescription. You can get them on amazon. Example

I am not affiliated with that product or anything. It’s just on my list of things I want to try.

I’ve only been wearing them since November (broken legs) and I’ve tried a bunch from amazon. My favorite are blitzu , they are pretty light weight and very cheap.

I bought a gel cushion from amazon https://www.amazon.com/Drive-Medical-14886-Protection-Wheelchair/dp/B002VWJZHE/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1TGKOZ3ZHTH8R&amp;keywords=drive+gel+cushion+seat+pad&amp;qid=1558281509&amp;s=gateway&amp;sprefix=drive+gel+cushion%2Caps%2C179&amp;sr=8-3 It is pretty good

I can't stand very long sometimes even on the best surfaces so I bought one of those industrial stools to sit and do dishes at. I got this one. It's light weight and easy to move around and out of the weight, but sturdy. Not the most comfortable, but good enough for the time it usually takes me to do dishes.

I have four levels of degenerated discs and up until Feb, had a herniation around L4/L5 as well. I have purchased three different brands of pregnancy pillow and obviously everyone's experience is different but this pillow has been by far my favourite one:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NPXC7ZY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1

It makes a HUGE difference and I didn't have it for a few weeks after a move and really suffered.

Also seconding the firmer mattress suggestion. I had a really, really nice Tempur-Pedic for a while and only realised that I was feeling better about lying down when I was putting my daughter down and lying down with her on her cheap, firm IKEA mattress. When I moved I bought the largest, cheapest bed I could (a £250 Super King from IKEA), top level firmness, and it's felt so much better than the memory foam ever did.

I have bought this one, and got a second one after I inevitability ran the first one over with my wheelchair, but I liked it so much I had to have the same one. It's very sturdy; I find that the cheap ones break on me in about a month. This one is like, commercial strength, so to speak. It's ~20 bucks:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000V0AGS/

It doesn't have a great taste. I have an accurate scale and get my dose ready. I use 10g at a time, but that's likely way too much for you. Start at 1g, and then increase slowly. If you take too much, you will feel dizzy for a while. I use a protein shaker and use chocolate almond milk. Maybe a half ounce for every gram of kratom. Shake it up for a while, put it back in fridge, then take it out like ten minutes later and chug it. You can't use regular milk or it will get foamy in a bad way. Other people do a toss and wash where they put the dose on the back of their tongue and then wash down with a juice. I recommend not doing that as if you screw up it will be a lot of coughing.

I've made kratom tea before. You'll need lemon juice and citric acid. I just would fill up a thermal insulated bottle like 64 oz, with 200 degree water or so, less than boiling, then like quadruple my regular dose so 40g, and then like 10g or citric acid, and I let it steep for 4 hours. Then strain it with a filter like a nut bag or you can like a 300-500 micron filter.

It really helped me. I was on hydrocodone around the clock for a while and it helped me use less. Also helped me with anxiety. You generally don't feel it, but sometimes it can have a nice euphoric feel. I tried cbd in many forms with no luck. Was close to trying kava or thc, but never did.

I found in general abdominal type pain never really was touched by anything when I had it. The Bentyl was decent. I had a blockage in February due to c diff and it was hell. The only thing that helped was iv dilaudid for a week.

Of course! I go on it at least once a day now for about 4 mins fully inverted. When i first got it i was slowly getting comfortable with it doing about 2-3 times a day. I have this one, it’s great for the price And different weight/ height family members have tried it and always felt very stable. Innova Heavy Duty Inversion Table https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003QCI4GG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9QqfFb9TFWJ9B

They sell them on amazon. I bought one a few months ago. It didn’t work very well, so I ended up returning it. It’s such a good concept, but I gave up trying after my first purchase was so disappointing.

It was this one:

Graphene Waist Heating Pad Lower Back Heating Heat Patches Wraps Belt Wrap with Adjustable Strap Contoured for Back Pain Relief https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083YXSRRH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_uG8xFbGCAJHNZ

I use the regular calendar that comes with Android for all of those. If I need to make a call, I just add a reminder at a specific date on the calendar. I get a notification the day before an appointment, and on the same day. If you have a gmail account, you can just click on the calendar icon on the right of the screen. It automatically syncs with your phone and tablet.

I use Medisafe for tracking my medication, and it has a doctor and appointment section. I've never used it, but it sounds like what you want.

Here is a link to a similar kind: Caravan Sports Infinity Zero Gravity Chair, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004KWBP1W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_jxfKBbKTTCJBD

The one I have is a little higher quality. Will see if I can find.

I have facial pain but use the Accurelief unit. Was about 50 at Walgreens or Rite Aid I forget which. Replacement pad set is 15 I think. I like it because it has two separate channels, each of which can use different power settings/patterns. The cables to the pads are nice and long. Goes up to 25 but I use 3 for my face. Having lower intensity settings may be good in sensitive places like the foot. Found battery life to be pretty good. It uses 3 AAA batteries. Good luck! Hope it helps! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KPLDX3U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_6LIKBbW7XFRBG

I wouldn't necessarily call this OCD, I would call it heavy duty anxiety. I completely empathize with some of your examples. They make sense to me having experienced similar things myself. (I thought I could catch botulism from a dirty dish, or just the smell of roach spray down the hall poisoned my glass of water in my apartment.)

See a psychiatrist and get some medication. Antidepressants can really help anxiety. Sometimes eliminate it completely if you find the right one. Tranquilizers can help until you reach a therapeutic level with the AD (which can take 1-2 months). But once it kicks in it's like night and day.

In addition to medication I would look into CBT. Find a therapist and also read Feeling Good by Burns or one of his other books on CBT. CBT will also help you talk yourself down from irrational fears, (for example, like catching rabies from a dirty rock). You can also read Full Catastrophe Living by Kabat-Zinn, which emphasizes meditation and guided relaxation for both anxiety and pain relief.

The other big weapon in the anti-anxiety arsenal is exercise, enough to make you sweat and get you tired. I don't know if your condition will let you do this. If not, can you do yoga? Look for gentle beginner's yoga or seniors yoga or chair yoga. Lots of videos online but working with a teacher is even better. Swimming can be great if you have joint pain since the water supports you.

You can also try all the other anti-anxiety things. No caffeine would be next on the list, so no coffee, tea or even chocolate. Chocolate would give me anxiety attacks. So avoid stimulants. Even decaf can be too much. You can try some herbal things to calm you down, but be careful because some of them interact with medications.

Oh and BTW, you can't catch rabies from rabbits! I found this out when I got bit by a mouse and went to the ER. Doc showed me the medical text that said rodents don't get rabies or pass it to humans. But I did need a tetanus booster.

Hey, hello!

I completely agree with the negative thinking patterns being the issue. I was in a very similar situation and changing those patterns helped me immensely.

Also try meditation (MBSR). It has helped me a lot. Check out Full Catastrophe Living book and let me know what you think.

Good luck.

It sounds like you have a lot of anxiety related to your health issues. If you can dial down the anxiety it can help you tolerate the health issues better.

So how do you do that? Vigorous exercise helps a lot, but that sounds like it's a bit much for you. Cognitive behavior therapy can help, does your therapist do that with you? If not there are lots of self help books for that. Make sure you're smoking the right kind of weed for anxiety, some kinds are more calming others are more stimulating. Meditation can help quite a bit, as can guided relaxation. /r/Meditation is a place to start. Also "Full Catastrophe Living" by Kabatt-Zinn is an excellent book. The program is taught at some hospitals too. Stay away from caffeine.

Antidepressants can help with both anxiety and chronic pain. They do take months to start being effective, if they are going to be effective.

Thanks for defending me and I am sorry what you've had to go through. It is VERY emotionally and physically draining, as you've pointed out. Most people don't understand what it's like to have to juggle 3 drs appointments a week, drs phone calls, perusing forums for answers, crying, taking 8 medications a day, spending the money on all of this, flying around the country for answers, dealing with fucked up medical claims, dealing with insurance when they forget to communicate with your pharmacy insurance, losing strength, getting fat, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, trying out different medical devices for chronic pain, doing household chores (which is twice as hard with pain), and on top of all this studying for 8 hours a day for computer engineering, a girlfriend, family, and friends who are barely your friends anymore because you've "changed"......etc, etc lol.

I do understand where 16semesters is coming from because I used to read books such as "The Secret", "Think and Grow Rich", "How to Win Friends and Influence People" and the entire basis is "thinketh and you will becometh". I was ALL about this attitude before this whole shebangle, but I've changed. I just find it hard to care anymore about anything. I feel like its just over some times, so whats the point? I'm too tired of continuing on, it's just not worth it. But then I'll read or hear something inspiring and I tell myself to not give up, to keep going on - that the light is still at the end of the tunnel, I just can't see it....

I can't recommend a daily mindfulness practice enough.

Mindfulness in Plain English by Bhante G. You can get the book for free online.

I ended up converting to Buddhism (that's not necessary for a mindfulness practice - mentioned for full disclosure). I like to say I'm the only one I know that changed religions for health reasons.

Have you ever read Victor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning? His last sort of 'step' for dealing with terrible circumstances/depression is re-integrating the idea that the world is essentially a good place. I still struggle with the validity of this statement because for so many, the world is not a good place at all.

I have used CBT therapists in the past to deal with depression & pain management.

I found it very useful in the early stages in learning about pain and it's treatments as well as mental exercises (quite closely tied with mindfulness) to deal with moments of extreme pain/anxiety.

It helped me move from trying to ignore the pain to focusing on it and restricting it in that manner. I found the book Full Catastrophe Living somewhat useful and others more so (sorry forgot titles).

I was never told or read about using it as a substitute for pain medication more in tandem was the advice I seemed to get. I suppose if successful perhaps you might reduce your pain killers but you're not supposed to be annoyed or dismayed at them but positively view them as medication that can be useful for your ailment.

Good advice, thanks. The Android version, and the old iOS version have a slightly different name than the new app discussed here.

If you were to search for 'my pain diary' without the rest, that should have worked.

Android Version of My Pain Diary

I realise this is an old post but I'm currently using Catch my pain It has a weather bit, also you can colour in body parts by pain intensity, add notes and also has a medication reminder in it. I skipped the log in page but eventually made an account since I'm pretty happy with it. There are paid addons but you can skip (bottom left, took me days to realise it was more than a pain mapper), I have actually been using google reward credits for buying addons to apps like this. If you have found a better one yourself in the mean time, would you care to share :)

I just went through this myself! I could not find any good ones. Then I set my wife onto it. She is super good at crawling the webs finding what I need.

And then I ordered what she recommended. I've been using it now for 2 weeks and it's really good. Has more than I will ever need in it! It's so complete I can't imagine needing anything more!

So I highly recommend this one:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08J7LN261/

I like old school hot water bottles! Amazon has lots of options (they even have some with teddy bear covers).

When I sleep with it beside me, it stays warm all night long. I fill it up and put it in my bed before brushing my teeth, so when I get into bed it’s nice and warm.

It’s soft and moves with me with no itchy, scratchy cords. And I personally feel like it’s a safer option. I’ve never had one leak.

And BONUS I make one in the morning and put it in the bottom of my tote bag. So when I set my bag in my lap, it’s instant warm relief. So comforting at the doctors office, and especially when getting blood drawn. And great for bus and car rides.

These two are my favorites:

Hot Water Bottle with Soft Cover... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086Q2PLW6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

The Body Bottle, The Original... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LZGRGNM?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I have had a bunch of heating pads over the years. Hell I even tried an antique one from ebay once (it was awesome but too old to trust). So I found this one on amazon. They last about three years, which is not as long as I would like. but not to bad. And it is large enough to actually cover all of my lower back. plus it doesn't automatically turn off.