I use my stimulator sporadically. I will turn it on when my pain reaches a 2 or 3 and generally leave it on for a full day. I notice the stimulation is stronger when I press on my forehead, so sleeping on my stomach can be a little uncomfortable. Usually around hour 25 it really starts to annoy me, so I'll switch it off for a day or two. Then the cycle starts again.
Something I have really been struggling with is getting off of pain killers. I wasn't sure if I should broach this subject, but I think it's important. My use of opiates has been fairly consistent over the past few years. I have never had an addiction problem, yet I often do not discuss my usage because many people do not understand taking them responsibly. I always hear a story about how it's only a matter of time before I become an addict.
I strongly believe that to become addicted to opiates you can't be in pain. At least not chronic, overwhelming pain like many of us are. There are some doctors who do not believe in prescribing pain killers unless a person is terminally ill. This is beyond frustrating to those suffering with chronic pain. To be honest, those pills saved my life. There were days when I was so hopeless and in such dire pain that I was suicidal. However, there are also doctors that will hand out prescriptions like candy, and these doctors cheapen the real pain that some people are in.
What I am having issues with is physical dependence. Much different from mental addiction. I don't think I realized how much my body needs this medication. I've been trying to wean off slowly, but it's easier said than done. I just can't wait to be done with them!
