Yes, and that you also have body language (needing a new spine) is connected, just like we are all mind/body! I think once you do stand up for yourself, you will begin to manage your pain more easily too, and with professional help, make it fully bearable!

Write down what needs to be said, don't worry about format or "order" to it. First get it into writing. You might want to take a few weeks to do this, adding things as you think of them, changing wording as you hear from other articles or news issues. Make a list of your needs and of the complaints you have. (You will probably find that they are connected or covered under a few maladies, even though the doctors haven't shared all that with you.)

Rewrite the needs and complaints. Get someone's help if you can, anyone with knowledge of how a doctor thinks, or medical terminology (a little bit) can help specify in their own terms what you are talking about. Educate yourself as much as you can with the areas of your concern, what other experts are saying etc.

Make an appointment for a "talk" consultation appointment. This is in their office and usually only 15 minutes, but ask to be sure.

Sit and read what you've written, if you can't share it by heart by now. Make the list so you can pause for a response, and also have a place to write what the doctor says.

If you are still ill at ease during the process, don't agree to anything yet, but say that you are taking the information and will get back to them about what you think is the next step you need.

IF the doctor begins to offer a new path now that you're educated and involved, then go ahead with something you know you asked for...if you are comfortable with them, then ask them if they are willing to work with you in finding the best solution for your pain management. (Write this down.) If all they want to do is refer you, ask them why. It could be they aren't comfortable prescribing pain meds, or maybe they've had a real issue with it and aren't allowed to or something for a time.. But if you want them to work with you on it, then ask them to, and not to refer you.. maybe put in a time to try it (a year) and if by then, you'll try another doctor etc....

Not all doctors are up to the challenge. Unfortunately, the chronic pain patient has no choice.