Herniated Disk

[concerned190]

Recently undergone an MRI scan following over a year of sciatica down both legs. Been diagnosed as having a bilateral herniation of my L5 disk. Was offered the choice of epidural injections or surgery, have chosen the injections (failing that will have to accept surgery). However I have now been placed on a waiting list that I have been advised could take months before I can have the injections.

I am taking 50mg's of Diclofenac sodium and 2 paracetamols with each meal per day. During the daytime I don't have much problem coping. At night however I am really struggling to get any sleep. It is almost impossible for me to find a position in which I am not feeling any pain. I have tried everything, putting pillows under my back and knees, taking my painkillers just before bed, exercises before bed. You name it and I've given it a go. Am at my wits end as I need my sleep and it is utterly soul destroying laying awake at night despite being incredibly tired.

Any suggestions would be much appreciated!?

[jackthehat]

If your pain relief isn't working, go back to your GP. He may be able to give you something for night-time relief.
I found that 30/500 co-codemol helped, Tramadol made me feel 'odd' but I was prescribed 'pregabalin (Lyrica)' which helped..........especially the one before bed.

I had the injection, it helped..........but underwent surgery a few years later, in any case.

Best of luck :o)

[Sqad]

I agree Tramadol may well be effective for you at night,

[mike11111]

I know that GPs are very reluctant to prescribe sleeping pills these days but I would have thought that in your situation they would be the answer.

[bednobs]

you can get slow release diclofenac which might be better for you. acupuncture could also give you some relief

[anneasquith]

i have a friend in a similar situation. recently prescribed amitriptyline ( small dose ) with some relief. good luck.

[gingejbee]

I had injections for similar problems - they did help but for only about six months; I ended up having two lots of surgery (several years apart) and narrowly escaped a third op (fusion) last year. I found 100mg slow-release diclofenac with some co-codamol to be the answer.
As for sleeping - my best position was on my front, head turned to one side resting against pillow (NOT under head) and one leg bent up slightly to the same side as head- difficult to explain! Very best wishes- hope it's sorted sooner rather than later.

[icemaiden]

I am on Amitriptyline 10mg, at night for muscle spasms, which can be very painful. I can take two if it's very bad. I had spinal fusion two years ago. I tried everything but ended up having surgery.

Hope you don't have to wait much longer. Being in constant pain is very draining.