To seek a more detailed opinion

[CaptainCabinets]

Hi all, posted recently in General Health about taking amitriptyline for neuropathic pain, this is linked!

I’m 99% sure I’ve slipped a disc in the lumbar region. I’m very familiar with the symptoms and tick pretty much every box. I’m a student nurse and have worked as a HCA for several years so it’s something of an occupational hazard no matter how closely one follows moving and handling policies!

I saw my GP last week, she didn’t physically examine me at all and has put me straight on amitriptyline and is ‘referring me to physio’ despite my concerns.

WIBU to go back and ask for a proper examination and referral for more detailed investigation (e.g. an MRI scan) to see what exactly is going on with my spine as I’m not sure how the GP has arrived at the decision to refer me for physio without knowing what exactly she’s referring me for, if that makes sense? I don’t want to be branded a hypochondriac or a narc seeker (no thanks!) but I cannot cope with the constant pain any more

No you are not being unreasonable at all!

You know your body, you either should have an understanding of why the person has made the choice they have and agree with it, or if it still seems random, you should have a better investigation that you are happy with. If there is another doctor maybe try them, or go back and say you are not comfortable, please explain and please investigate as you don't think it is being dealt with thoroughly. You know your body.

It's not hypochondriac or drug seeker, you want to know what's going on, that is more than fair!

As a hca i would expect you to know that gps cannot know and check everything , thats why she is referring you to a physio as they have the knowledge and can suggest mri etc

Hi, sounds like a physio might be the best person to diagnose and treat your problem. They will definitely refer you on if they feel they need to, or ask your gp to refer. All many gps will be able to do is rule out any serious medical issues such as kidney problems or cauda equina. And this can be done by asking a few questions. Amytriptyline in low doses is a great analgesia without taking opiates. Why not see what the physio says? But any concerns of course you're not unreasonable to ask for a second opinion.