Does anybody use a pain diary?

[astrogirl23]

I'm wondering if anybody here has found it helpful to track their pain symptoms and progress on a daily basis using a pain diary?

[Mark N]

I used one as I was putting things together for my disability claim. My pain has never seemed to be tied into any particular activity except those that are absolute no-nos for me. If your pain is variable I think the diary is a very good way to determine what triggers your pain.

[Boxerlover]

Hey Astrogirl, I did back in the beginning as I was being titrated. I have been pretty stable on my dose now for awhile. I do think it helped me with my PM doc.

Melissa

[beverly7216]

I was born with a gene that is affecting my legs now-they are crippling and twisitng. My spine is also doing what it seems to want to do. They say that any part of me I sprain ,fracture, break will not heal right. I am hurting so bad that I have started a little book with the symptons as I can't remember them all at one time. I never thought about putting the dates on it. If you even think it could help me please let me know.They finally told me January 2nd that it has been working on my organs for a year. I would be greatdful for any ideas or support I can get. I cannot figure out how to put my e-mail on here and if this is wrong I am very sorry.Please, forgive me I really do need some help. Beverly: ke4ujm@hotmail.com

[Mark N]

beverly, you have come to a great place to get some info and support. Yes you should put the dates with your entries as it helps track what is going on with your symptoms. I would include changes in medication, any activities that are connected, or anything else that might be a factor. Welcome aboard here.

[jtroy]

Absolutely!! You have no idea how much one will help you to potentially identify "triggers" or what not. I know that my personal PM doc made me do it initially and when I reflect on it I wonder just how much pain a body can take....also, if it weren't for the initial pain diary I wouldn't have been able to actually document that I "flare" with weather changes....they also can be critical to a disability claim as Mark mentioned....they are a fantastic idea and I'd recommend anyone in chronic pain just do it for a few months....you'll be amazed at just how much pain you endure.

Welcome Beverly!! You have found an incredible support forum...you'll also find a ton of experience here....I can personally tell you that if it weren't for folks here I probably wouldn't have made it this long....feel free to post any questions about meds, procedures, etc., that you may have....you'll find that there is at least one person here who probably has gone through what you are going through....welcome!!

Regards,

T. Jones, DVM