More Pain

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Yesterday was my last day of radiation. One would think this is a good thing, but in this particular case it’s not. We decided to halt any further radiation treatments at this point because it is not helping with the pain I am having in my back or hips. In fact, after I leave radiation I usually am in more pain from laying on the hard table.

This past Monday and Tuesday I have had to go to the internal medicine clinic to get X-rays and IV meds because I was in so much pain. I am so frustrated! It seems like everything we are doing is not working. Everytime I lay down or sit for more than a few minutes my back feels like it's in excrutiating pain and usually takes me a minute to regain my composure.

I do have scheduled at CTCA more acupuncture and rehab physical therapy. I am hoping that this may help a little. At this point I am willing to try anything. I still haven’t gotten a rash from the Tarceva, which is a side effect that usually means the targeted chemotherapy is working. The doctor did mention that there is about 4 percent of the population that doesn’t experience the side effects from the chemotherapy. I still have another couple of weeks before we do a PET scan and I can see how the cancer is progressing.

This weekend I am going to Newport Beach with a couple of girlfriends. I am so excited! I haven’t been out of town since last year! Those of you that know me know that I love to travel and usually try to get out of town once a month. I am a little nervous about going and having something happen. I wish I had a little more time before we go. I feel like I need to call my care manager and get this pain situation taken care of.

Link to blog: http://themelissawaller.wordpress.com/2009/07/23/more-pain/

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Kristin Davis

Why do they have you lay on a hard table during radiation? I'm wondering if they could make it more comfortable. I'm so sorry to hear how bad the pain is.

Sounds like you're in for a fun trip with your girlfriends. Hope it's a blast and that the pain goes away! Girlfriend "therapy" can do wonders.

July 24, 2009 - 10:02pm

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alysiak

I'm somewhat surprised that someone hasn't figured out how to make the patient more comfortable on the radiation table. Perhaps your input can help.

I hope you can enjoy your trip to Newport Beach.

July 24, 2009 - 6:02pm

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Anonymous

Sorry to hear about the pain! But have fun on your trip. It sounds like a good time.

July 24, 2009 - 12:07pm

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Melissa Waller View Profile Send Message

We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.