Posted by judy1 on August 29, 2000, at 12:19:54
In reply to HELP!! Need support before surgery, posted by Dona on August 28, 2000, at 15:50:48
Dear Dona,
After a car accident 2 years ago where both knee caps were crushed, I had to have surgery on both- 6 months later (after repeated trials of physical therapy). I found the panic attacks I experienced preceding the two surgeries was so much worse than the actual procedures. My benzo use went way up before and I was able to curtail it afterwards. As far as pain, I'll echo Greg's statements. I went one step further than he- I went to a pain management specialist and was prescribed ms contin. While I felt I had hit the mother lode (over the loud protests of my orthopedic surgeon and psychiatrist), it, too, eventually worsened my depression. But I also feel that no one should be in pain, and if you don't have a history of abuse you have nothing to worry about. If you do, than try to be honest with your treating physicians so they can monitor you closely. Since you are a nurse, I understand your concerns about being dependent on anyone, but after a few days, I had a full leg removable soft cast and got along amazingly well with crutches- I was able to take care of my child and menagerie of animals with no problem. I told my husband to take care of himself. Best of luck and good thoughts are coming your way- Judy
poster:judy1
thread:274
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20000813/msgs/300.html