Author: Belinda (---.dsl.rcsntx.swbell.net)
Date: 08-20-02 21:27
I thought it would be a good to share what we have found works (or not) for pain management. Below are what has helped me. In some instances my healthcare has covered some expenses, but I often pay 100% of the cost because a treatment helps me. You can search the web for further information about any of these, or click on the bold phrases for links to further reading.
The Best
Craniosacral Therapy (alternatively spelled cranio-sacral), a manipulative technique from osteopathic medicine. Many osteopathic physicians use this gentle therapy in their practice, but some don't - so ask, if you are looking for a practioner who can provide this service. Some other health providers, such as chiropractors, physical or occupational therapists or massage therapists may be trained in this technique. I prefer chiropractic or osteopathic physicians who have in-depth medical knowledge and are likely to use a variety of techniques, such as manipulation and lymphatic pump, as appropriate, for pain relief. The unique philosophy of osteopathy and its treatment of the lymphatic system seems a match for sarcoidosis.
Acupuncture is a treatment I relied on for years. Yes, they do use real, sterile needles. The needles are disposable and the skin is sterilized before the needles are inserted. This is nothing like a hypodermic injection. The needles are very fine. There is some pain sometimes, but nothing like the pain I have from sarcoidosis. The results seemed miraculous to me. You can find licensed acupuncturists in the phone book. Some doctors or other medical practitioners use acupuncture in their practice.
Very Good
My experience is that massage is not the relaxing dream you may envision, but the right practitioner can bring relief. Massage therapists take their job seriously, listened intently and never questioned whether I was ill. My husband has become self-taught so he can do this at home. Not as effective, but it is less expensive. Massage oils are sold on the internet. You have to use massage oil - it protects you from more pain.
Silymarin is a food supplement I read about on the European Sarcoidosis website. I read that a Russian doctor used it for support of liver function in sarcoid patients. Not a cure, of course, but it keeps my right upper abdomen from hurting. I buy it at a health food store. Every now and then I stop taking it and the pain comes back. So I keep taking it.  Of course, I've had all those diagnostic tests done to look for cancer and all.
I think of all these treatments as complimentary (rather than alternative) medicine. What have you found works for you?
Take care,
Belinda
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