I spoke with my PCP yesterday to try and get an X-ray and MRI to diagnose what is going on with my hips, joints and Sciatic nerve pain I am experiencing. He referred me to a local Rheumatologist because he stated insurance doesn't like when PCP's order MRI's; but he agrees one is needed.
I'm not ready to see another Rheumatologist just yet. I've had some bad experiences in the past, and I am satisfied with the care I am receiving through my PCP, Chiropractor and therapist. Maybe I should try and explain to them that I am wanting to get an MRI/X-ray work up to determine what is going on, but am not interested in any medication changes or alternative treatment currently? I'm afraid if I go to the Rheumatologist, they will try to completely change my treatment plan and I feel I'm doing OK right now; except for the hip/joint/Sciatic nerve pain. I guess I just need to suck it up and conquer my fear of going and get it over with as it may offer some needed support and answers. I definitely don't want this to get worse and cause something that is permanent and irreversible.
Am I being silly here? I need to not let the bad experiences of the past dictate my future treatment.
Sara, I know that insurance has changed a lot since my disc surgery a few years ago, but my PCP had no trouble at all in getting the MRI scheduled for me. I don’t really see the connection with a rheumatologist ordering an MRI for severe sciatica pain…why don’t you call your insurance to see what the procedure should be at this point? A lot of times they will get you into physical therapy first, but your pain seems so severe. My thoughts & prayers are with you. HUGS from Deb
i think it is reasonable to get the x rays and/or mri and then see if there is any other diagnosis or damage before changing any meds..I agree with deb, about calling your ins to find out the procedure for getting the mRI. you may have to go through the rheumatologist. Before my hubby got the knee surgery we went to see his rheumy and at that point she had exhausted all the rreatments that she could give him and said he may have to see ortho surg at that point which we did. . all the best and let me know how it all goes.
If your pain is this sevre, you might want to go to the ER. They would do the x-ray and if needed the MRI. Sorry you had a bad experience with a Rheumy. Mine is wonderful. I found mine by going online to see the best rated Rheumy. You might want to look for someone that takes time with you (I hate being rushed).
Sorry you are in so much pain. I feel you should go to the ER.
Thanks for the support and advice. I am going to call my insurance, thank you for that suggestion. I have contemplated going to the ER, but I just got an $800 bill from the last ER visit I had within the past few months. I'm scared to go again because I don't want to incure any more charges. It is getting to the point though where I'm going to have to go. I'm going to put aside my fears and make an appointment with the Rheumatologist. If it can provide me some relief, who I am to turn it down? : )
If you are still in pain, call your MD's office & tell them you are coming in for an emergency visit & get someone to drive you there & wait for you to take you back home.
No one should have to be in pain when there is a chance of getting relief from your MD!!!
You don't need an appointment just go!!!
Listening to a patient say they are in pain & seeing a patient in pain are 2 separate reactions. M
Hi Sara, I think you are right to go to the rheumatologist. I hope you can explain the situation and that he/she listens to you. Remember, no matter what he prescribes or wants to change, it is still YOUR choice whether to listen to him. Just say what you want from him, and if they say no after an exam, then smile and move along. Its better to have tried.
Hi Sara, I think you are right to go to the rheumatologist. I hope you can explain the situation and that he/she listens to you. Remember, no matter what he prescribes or wants to change, it is still YOUR choice whether to listen to him. Just say what you want from him, and if they say no after an exam, then smile and move along. Its better to have tried.
I spoke with my PCP's office yesterday and they increased my pain medication. I also have a follow-up appointment with my Chiropractor today to get my X-ray results. I'm praying they give me some answers!
Thank you,
Sara
Luna01 said:
If you are still in pain, call your MD's office & tell them you are coming in for an emergency visit & get someone to drive you there & wait for you to take you back home.
No one should have to be in pain when there is a chance of getting relief from your MD!!!
You don't need an appointment just go!!!
Listening to a patient say they are in pain & seeing a patient in pain are 2 separate reactions. M