I had a re constructive chest surgery 3 years ago. I have always been a "poor healer" and ended up developing major internal scar tissue build up. I have had PT, acupuncture and cortisone shots but everything is only temporarily helpful.

I am prescribed 60 (7.5/325) hydrocodone a month and the more time passes, the more I realize it isn't enough to help me function. I just don't know what other options I have besides increasing my meds and was wondering if anyone had a similar relate-able situation?
Thanks in advance.

Wish I had some info for you. I really can't think of what else could help besides more meds. Is that an option for you do you think?

Do be very careful w/any future chest surgeries though as scar tissue can make it extra dangerous.

I had a defib implant in my chest 1.5 years ago and still have trouble with the scar tissue thing my self.

I also have had 5 heart cath done. Ya know in the grown. Every time scare tissue builds up and the next is torcher.

I wish you luck.
C

Simply let the Doc know that the script is not effective on the pain and he should up your dose without you asking.

my pm doc stays away from apap, that is good and bad because I need to see him for refills (C11) but he is a very good doc and treats the problem not just the pain,

I have scar tissue on the heal of my foot that I step on every step I take and its painful. does anyone think this would warrant anykind of painkiller from the doc?

Thanks so much! I am certainly going to look into changing out my script. Voltaren gel also helps when my pain is at about a 6 or lower. I wonder if they make it any stronger? or if there is a stronger topical solution?

Maybe. Only you know how much it hurts and how much it is impacting your quality of life.

Really depends on the doctor. Also, my guess is that the doctor would be more likely to script meds if you and the doctor were working together on a more permanent solution.

I was researching something else and came across this info on scar tissue, from The Stretching Institute.

"Getting rid of the Scar Tissue

To remove the unwanted scar tissue it is vital that you start a course of deep tissue sports massage. While ultrasound and heat will help the injured area, they will not remove the scar tissue. Only massage will do that.

Either find someone who can massage the effected area for you, or if the injury is accessible, massage the damaged tissues yourself. Doing this yourself has the advantage of knowing just how hard and deep you need to massage.

To start with, the area will be quite tender. Start with a light stroke and gradually increase the pressure until you're able to use deep, firm strokes. The more you massage the effected area the harder and deeper you will be able to push.

Use deep, firm strokes, moving in the direction of the muscle fibers. Concentrate your effort at the direct point of injury, and use your thumbs to get in as deep as possible to break down the scar tissue."

Don't think this would work w/scar tissue deep inside of course. But could help w/Dee's foot.

haha, I'll have to try that myself. I don't currently have a girlfriend or anything that would massage my foot. I'm gonna try out some of those doctor scholls gelling massage things too. it mostly hurts when I walk barefoot, which is why you'll usually see me with socks, and shoes on, as this is the best solution I've found so far.