What To Do When Pain Meds Fail?

[Dan H]

I have chronic neck pain caused by degeneration and arthritis between the C5-C7. I am considered "too young" for surgery and physical therapy only aggravated the symptoms. This said, the doctors have had me on various strengths of opiate-based medications to control the pain.

Currently, I am taking Lorcet (Hydrocodone/APAP 10/650). In most cases, this is effective in controlling the pain. But when it is NOT enough to control the pain, life is unbearable. The pain spreads from the neck, down my back, into my head (behind my L eye, especially), and my arms frequently will go numb.

What can I do when my pain medications fail me? I cannot stand being in this much pain. Any ideas would be appreciated.
Pain meds I have been prescribed throughout my treatment:

- Ultram (50mg)
- Darvocet (cannot remember the mgs)
- Tylenol 3 w/ Codeine (cannot remember mgs)
- Vicodin (Hydro/APAP 5mg/500mg)
-Lorcet (Hydro/APAP 10mg/650mg)

The Lorcet is what I am currently on. The meds before the Lorcet were completely ineffective. I guess what my fear is that I will become too tolerant to opiates and there will be no hope in controlling my pain. It's sad that they won't operate, because I'm "too young" (I'm 33 years old). I feel that I'm running out of options, fast...
(in response to peggy sue) - I apologise... I forgot to mention that I tried injections, as well. They were completely ineffective, as well. When I asked my doctor about this, he pointed out that injections are really only 50% effective. Going in, I though it was a sure bet. Sadly, I am on the negative side of that 50%. Thanks for the reply!