[Ilkie]

I have osteo arthritis. I was on morphine based pain killers but suffered serious side effects. My GP took me off the tablets but i am in terrible pain. I have a tens machine which helps during the day but the problem is lack of sleep at night.My mattress is not a problem as i sleep ok sometimes. But when i get a flare up the pain wakes me and keeps me awake..I have regular injections in my spine and hips and am having knee surgery on Wednesday.Can anyone suggest alternative ways to help with the pain?I attend a pain clinic.I would rather not take any more pills.Thanks to those that suggested that, but it is not what i want.

[nickname]

Can your GP send you to a pain specialist? Sometimes they are better at managing chronic pain.

[Sati]

have you tried acupuncture. it worked great on my back pain just be sure the person knows what they are doing.

[♥katie♥ ♥]

you poor thing. I was going to suggest tens but you already use that, I have heard about these really strong pain killers available on percription Im sorry I dont know what they are called but I do know they are a suppositry, my mums neighbour who has serious pain takes them, maybe ask your doctor.

[Alan M]

If tens or morphine aren't working then you really are on the technology edge. Try alchohol if it's allowed. There's more than one flavour electric pain management machine and some of them are programmable. Worth hassling you GP for more details.

[Griefy]

I fractured my pelvis twice and put a lot of strain on my lower back. I use to be on strong pain relief. I kept fit and got back on my feet with Water aerobics.I stopped taking pills all the time and eventually stopped completely. I found cutting out red meats reduced my pain considerably and with plenty of cardiovascular exercise I am back to normal 90% of the time.

[pyrotech72]

I would try to find 3 or 4 that work well, and switch between them. Maybe stuff like Codeine, Oxycodone, and Hydrocodone. Your doctor should be able to help with this.The reason I would want to switch periodically is to keep from building up a resistance to one of them.And as far as arthritis itself, cut back on refined sugar, and take a Glucosamine Sulfate / Chondroitin Sulfate supplement.