I've been going to a 'pain doc' for about a year now. My doc is accomplished in many areas and she combines eastern medicine with western medicine. I have had acupuncture, massage, anti-inflammatories, narcotics, surgery, PT, OT, and even a 3-week intensive Pain Program this last summer.

Most Pain Clinics work a variety of treatments, and the clinics are few and far between, so if you got a referral to one, consider yourself lucky. I don't particularly personally care for my doc, but she does a good job managing my meds and working with my other doctors to ensure the most effective treatment possible.

Some pain docs/clinics work on the "absolutely no med" rule, and if that's the case with yours, you may want to consider if you're willing to try that. With 9 surgeries, I can imagine you are in some pain, and that most docs I know would be willing to work with you as an exception to the 'no drug' rule. Mine would prefer I don't take opiods, I would prefer myself to not have to take them, but that's not how my life is right now.

I hope I've answered some of your questions, and I hope you can find the relief you need so you can be more comfortable. Please keep us updated on your progress/treatment!

Here's some more posts about my experience, as well as those of others...from about summer time.

https://drugbuyers.com/freeboard/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=conditions&Number=32300&Forum=conditions&Words=pain%20management&Match=Entire%20Phrase&Searchpage=0&Limit=45&Old=6months&Main=19594&Search=true#Post32300

Sorry I coulnd't get the 'search' info out of the url, but there it is.... there's a ton of info there for you to read. Also, PM me if you have any questions, I'm happy to help whenever I can!

Take Care,
Toky