Something New

I'm trying something new this evening.

I should preface this by explaining something. I don't feel well. Ever, really. In fact, I think it's been years (at least 3) since I've had a day, even one day, that I really felt rested and in no pain. I don't say this to whine or to garner sympathy. It's just the way things are.
And I don't think it's normal.

I know. I know. I'm getting older. I should expect aches and pains. And I do. I know that it's common to start "falling apart" when you reach 30. But for most people, the days of feeling bad are the exception and not the rule at the age of 32.

For me, there are no exceptions. I hurt, in one way or another, or in several ways, every single day. Some days, enough that I cannot function, though I mostly just have to suck it up and go on.

In the last 10 years I have seen every kind of doctor that could possibly help me. Neurologists, chiropractors, accupuncturists, endochrinologists, pain specialists, therapists. . . on top of my family practice doctor and my OB/GYN. I'm an expert on doctor's offices. And more than one of them has thrown up their hands in frustration with me. Between chronic sciatica, migraines, and anxiety, I've taken pain killers, muscle relaxants, blood pressure medication, anti-depressants, anti-anxiety medication, epilepsy medication. . . None of them worked. At least for very long.

The one and only thing that ever helped me long term was a combo of chiropractic/accupuncture. For several years I only had 3-4 migraines a month, and my back pain was under control.

But then I had Nolan. And everything changed. The number of factors involved in this problem are too numerous to count. . . but let's just say, nothing is under control any more. My back hurts a lot of the time. The anxiety is often crippling. And the migraines. . . they're ridiculous. 3-4 a month grew to 10-15 a month. In the past 7 days, I've had 5. I have a few things that I can take when I get them, but a combination of insurance issues and fear of stomach problems keeps me from taking something every time I get one.

The longer I have them, the less willing I am to try crazy chemical combinations to try and remedy them. The side effects are awful. But the accupuncture isn't helping any more. I'm currently trying a combination of herbal supplements to try to get them under control, but after 5 weeks on this concoction, I'm finding no relief. I have to stay on the herbs for a while to get the full effect. . . and maybe they'll start helping. . . but I'm not feeling as much hope for that as I was a few weeks ago.

So tonight I try reflexology.

I know a few people who have found major relief from these treatments. And right this second, I am more than willing to try ANYTHING that will help. Especially if it doesn't involve drugs. I don't even care if it's placebo effect that makes me feel better. I just want to feel better.

So I ask you this. . .
since everyone has pain.

What have you tried? What are my other options, if this doesn't help? Any ideas are welcome. . .