Several years ago, I was diagnosed by a spine specialist (surgeon) that my condition was inoperable. He wanted me to do epidural steroid injections but my PCP didn't agree, based on what I did for a living, and other factors. Instead, he chose to treat me with an opioid that I could get from my pharmacy without any problems. Since the CDC's campaign became headline news, my doctor won't write it anymore, for fear of losing his license.
I can end this life, or try the black market, but my pension(s) are supporting me and my wife.
I don't know how much longer I can stay the course, as the "pain days" are getting pretty intense. Is there any way to get the government out of my personal life beside taking it? Get back to cheap medicines that work?
We really need some funny people who can lighten up the others (and themselves) carrying a heavy burden.
I don't know why pain doesn't kill a person, it just hurts a whole lot and then some.
I am medically interested in what type of job you have that steroid injections would be contraindicated, but that opiods would not. Hoping you are not out climbing poles or using dangerous machinery.
In states such as Mo., your very own doctor could be one targeted for past over prescribing opiods. That doesn't mean the doctor was wrong, but you are correct, the government is cracking down. And, again, that doesn't mean the patient is an addict, imo.
Try a pain specialist, a neurologist, and alternative sources of pain management, such as physical therapy, chiropractor, medical acupuncturist.
Have you heared of Prolia injections? An orthopedic m.d. and others (neurologist) can perform these. And, new back surgeries (minor) are being perfected, but I don't know what they are called. See a specialist, but at the same time, don't go do too much doctor-shopping to get your fave drugs, because you will be labelled and cut off, with only Cannabais to keep you high enough for pain relief. Could you do your work then?
So keep trying....there is hope. Swimming too, strengthen abdominal muscles to help your back. You are not that old yet.
Hang in there, don't despair, just work with your physicians to see what is effective.
Good Luck!
I can understand your current doctor not wanting to write a prescription for opioids, as one can become too dependent on said meds, and the opioids will eventually not be enough thus causing you to seek out meds you can't get through the normal route.