My Mom has had several compression back fractures. Has severe osteoporosis and back pain. If she was younger and healthier she would require back surgery. But we have been to several surgeons and even when she was younger they said she wasn't a good candidate for surgery. She realizes she isn't, but wants them to do something else.
She's miserable. This isn't going to kill her, but there's no cure. I get tired of going around from doctor to doctor, who all say the same thing.
She doesn't like the one pain management doctor she went to, so she won't go to another one.
How can I convince her to accept that she has to live the rest of her life with this pain. Her doctors do tell her that, but not forcefully enough.
I certainly wouldn't accept that I had to live with severe pain. We have Pain Centers here in AZ.
I'm sorry for you because she is depending on you to do her bidding, but you just have to let her vent and keep telling her there isn't anymore medically that can be done. Ask her what she wants to do to move forward? Can you get her in more outside activities at senior center.
Hang in there.
Unfortunately she isn't a good candidate for vertebroplasty.
She hasn't tried acupuncture. I hadn't thought of that. Thanks
Go into any doctor with the "one and done" philosophy (where appropriate) and you'll save yourself a lot of disappointment, and you won't feel all guilty when you call them up to cancel the subsequent appointment, which ALWAYS seems to get scheduled at the end of treatment.
This is cruel.
Even animals can get pain relief !
I would contact your local Senior Aging group & ask for suggestions & help to find assistance.
The right Dr. is out there, you will find them. There is no sense your mom has to live in so much pain! Praying for you!
I just got chewed out yesterday because I couldn't convince another neurosurgeon to see her as a patient. She says "they do things other than surgery". But his nurse tells me the doctor only see surgerical patients. Am I supposed to argue with the doctors nurse about what her boss does?
Just keep working on your mother. If she doesn't see a counselor maybe you could suggest it? They should be able to help her get through her denial. But ultimately, it rests on her shoulders.
Also, you don't have to listen to constant complaining either. There's just so much you can do before she drives you bonkers. Limit her bitch sessions, walk away or change the subject. I really hope things ease up for you. Hang in there.