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Gabapentin makes me loopy and I can't take it and I'm not going to take Lyrica. Thank you for any suggestions. I'm at wits end trying to get some sleep and I do not want anymore steroids. Steroids just waste away the tissue and cause more problems. Tramadol helps but causes breathing issues so I can only take a small amount and not every day.

July 15, 2025 (edited)
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Answer Summary

Members offered a wide range of suggestions for managing nerve pain without traditional medications, with many sharing that peppermint oil... Read more

Members offered a wide range of suggestions for managing nerve pain without traditional medications, with many sharing that peppermint oil applied topically provided some relief while emphasizing caution around pets and eyes, and others finding success with products like Resonate Botanicals, Arctic ice spray with menthol, magnesium cream, tart cherry juice, and CBD. Several members mentioned that physical therapy with prone exercises was the only lasting solution for sciatica-like pain, while others found relief through sleep aids like trazodone or gummies, muscle relaxants like diazepam, and low-dose naltrexone, though many acknowledged that responses vary widely from person to person. A recurring theme was the struggle to find non-drug solutions that work, the frustration with medications causing unwanted side effects, and the shared experience of sleepless nights and persistent pain that makes even daily tasks feel overwhelming.

A MyFibroTeam Member

So far I think a good (which means expensive) peppermint oil is the best thing for pain but you have to be very careful with it and don't get in the eyes and don't let pets lick it off you and don't use a diffuser around pets.

July 15, 2025
A MyFibroTeam Member

I have to let you know that I'm a senior and I found out a long time ago that fruit juices contain too much sugar. I used to wake up with debilitating cramps in my legs and found out it was because I drank orange juice which has a lot of sugar in it. Recently I was convinced to try pomegranate juice again because it's so good for you but I've been getting cramps again so unfortunately I have to stick with the whole fruit. I honestly do not have any problem falling asleep. It's just hard to stay in bed with the nerve pain after falling asleep. But I'm always willing to experiment so maybe I'll try the tart cherry juice.

July 21, 2025 (edited)
A MyFibroTeam Member

Shotsey try Cherry juice! You can buy on Amazon. It really helps !

July 20, 2025
A MyFibroTeam Member

Was just remembering a friend with Fibromyalgia would put lavender essential oil on her pillow and that helped her fall asleep.

I tried that, but being used to no smells at bedtime, that actually kept me awake.

Lavender is a pleasant smell, there are some people this might help.

“ Sleep Aid

Studies have shown that inhaling essential oils — including lavender essential oil — may be a safe alternative to other medications for mild to moderate sleep disturbances.”

July 16, 2025 (edited)
A MyFibroTeam Member

Physical Therapy is the only remedy I found, whereat I got exercises to do while prone (I do them in bed) to prevent reoccurrence...This PAIN is the pits. Lyrica was terrifying - it made me not know why I was out driving nor where I was supposed to go! I had to pull over & call the Hubster! Scary to the max. All their 'head shrinking' drugs are horrid, IMOHO&E... only Treating the Underlying Causation is effective. Brilliant Dr. J. Teitelbaum's books - initially: "From Fatigued to Fantastic" 4th ED is amazing... I met him while he was introducing 1st Ed. & I'm honored to still be in touch.

July 16, 2025 (edited)

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