Back on Steroids

I'm back on steroids again for my back or hip. I'm not sure what it is for now after my recent doctor office visit and the amount of pain I am in. I've really never had anything like this before... the pain and discomfort. Yesterday was the worst day yet but my first on the steroid pills so hopefully things will get better this week. I have the pills for nine days and like the last time it is 3 pills for 3 days, 2 pills for 3 days and then 1 pill for 3 days. A weening process. Lots of fine print on the prescription documentation.

When I had these pills last July I was not in anywhere near the amount of pain and discomfort that I am feeling at this time. I had trouble sleeping last night and read a lot but at least I wasn't in pain while laying in bed. Most of the pain I'm having now is when I move like going up and down the stairs, getting out of a chair, etc. I have been regularly using a heating pad and occasionally alternating with a cold pack. 

The other day I was contacted by Great Lakes Medical Imagining after my scan request was approved by the health insurance company. We set up an appointment for a CAT scan of my lumbar spine. Then I will meet with a spine specialist doctor from UB Neurosurgery, where I already have an account and relationship, who will evaluate the scan, examine me and recommend a course of treatment. Hopefully nothing with spine surgery involved. I'd really like something like a cortisone shot for the pain and the recommendation of a good physical therapy center.

We have tickets to the Buffalo Philharmonic tonight at Klinehams Music Hall to see the Rachmanioff Festival with the best seats in the house courtesy of the Bairds but I don't think I can make it unless these pills somehow work miracles over the next few hours.