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Gabapentin & Physical Therapy (Read 5221 times)
CindyP
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Gabapentin & Physical Therapy
08/25/16 at 04:19:45
 
Recently had X-rays and MRI to see if there's nerve interference causing pain in my arm.  Although there's mild degeneration of a couple of vertebrae in my neck, the rheumy says it's "unremarkable".

So per doctor's recommendation, I've started taking Gabapentin, working up to a dose of 300mg.  I'm wondering if anyone here has used it and whether or not it was helpful.

The rheumatologist has also recommended physical therapy.  Again, I'm wondering about anyone else's experience with this.

Meanwhile, my local allergist is making arrangements for me to see Dr. Lichtenberger in NC.  I have some reservations about seeing a 3rd allergist, even if he does have experience with MCAD.  I tend to think I don't fit into the allergists' criteria for MCAS, but I do fit the broader criteria as outlined by hematologist.  Any feedback on this would be much appreciated.

Cindy
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Joan
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Re: Gabapentin & Physical Therapy
Reply #1 - 08/28/16 at 15:53:13
 
I don't think it ever hurts to get the opinion of a mast cell specialist.  Mast cells affect nerves, and malfunctioning mast cells can affect the function of nerves.

I haven't taken gabapentin, but I've heard some good results in the few people I've known who took it.
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CindyP
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Re: Gabapentin & Physical Therapy
Reply #2 - 09/04/16 at 07:21:47
 
Thanks for the feedback, Joan.  I suppose any mast cell specialist is better than no mast cell specialist.  Maybe I've been reading too much from Dr. Afrin and I'm biased toward a hematologist.  But this is the route my doctors have taken me, so I'll put a bit more faith in them.

I have come to a better understanding that MCAS patients need to treat the resulting illnesses along with the MCAS.  Until I get a diagnosis, this will be especially important.  I've been wrong to think I can't get help until I find THE doctor that understands MCAS.  My adjusted understanding opened me up to exploring what the rheumatologist is suggesting.  I'll try to be a better patient.
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Joan
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Re: Gabapentin & Physical Therapy
Reply #3 - 09/06/16 at 19:52:36
 
First of all, I've had some good results from physical therapy.  Some have been too rough on my sensitive body, and I've had rebound pain. Others have been great, teaching me about body mechanics so I can avoid causing more inflammation in my body and helping me get re-conditioned after a big flare.  

Being a better patient, to me, is getting all the information from as many doctors as it takes for you to feel like you're doing everything you can to have a good life and feel the best you can.  Dr. Lichtenberger may be all you need, but if you think you still want to see a hematologist for further answers and/or testing, by all means see one!  You can go see Dr. Afrin in Minnesota if you are able.  He's scheduling a year or more out, but there is a cancellation wait list you can get on to possibly see him sooner.  I don't know who, but there must be a good hematologist for mast cell disease in Boston, too.
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CindyP
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Re: Gabapentin & Physical Therapy
Reply #4 - 10/27/16 at 05:48:57
 
Update on Gabapentin:  It didn't help my pain.  It did, however, cause side effects, including memory and concentration issues and dizziness.  After about 2 months on it, I asked rheumy to take me off.  



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