If you’ve been following my health journey for a while, you know my body likes to keep things… interesting. Between fibromyalgia, psoriatic arthritis, and the grab bag of autoimmune disorders I’ve got going on, I’ve become something of an unwilling expert in meds, symptoms, and side effects. Still, every new medication feels like stepping into a brand-new, unpredictable chapter.

Recently, I was prescribed two new medications: Flexeril (a muscle relaxer) and Cymbalta (an SNRI often used to treat depression, anxiety, and nerve pain). These are being added to an already long list of prescriptions and supplements I rely on to function effectively in daily life.

I’ve had Flexeril once before, and I’ve taken Robaxin in the past with no major issues—it’s considered a milder muscle relaxer. Flexeril, however, is a bit stronger and can lead to some pronounced drowsiness, which I find a double-edged sword; while I appreciate the muscle relief, the sedation can make managing daily tasks a bit tricky. The potential for dizziness is also something to keep in mind, especially given my existing balance issues.

But Cymbalta? That’s a new one for me, and let’s just say I’ve heard very mixed reviews from the fibro community. I’ve come across stories of individuals experiencing tremendous benefits, such as reduced pain and improved mood, which is promising. Yet, I’ve also encountered cautionary tales of upsetting side effects and withdrawal symptoms that can make you second-guess any decision to introduce it into your routine. The thought of managing both pain and the potential fallout from a new medication is daunting.

As I prepare to navigate this new path, I remind myself to stay tuned to my body’s signals. I’ll be keeping a close eye on how I respond to these prescriptions, balancing vigilance with the hope that each new step could lead to some much-needed improvement in my day-to-day quality of life. Fingers crossed that this unpredictable journey continues to surprise me in a positive way!

🩻 Breaking Down the New Diagnoses

1. Lumbar Spondylosis [Not really new, we knew this already]

This is a fancy word for “wear and tear” in the lower back. It’s a type of arthritis – osteoarthritis, in the spine caused by aging, degeneration of discs, and bone spurs. For me, this means stiffness, lower back pain, and nerve irritation—especially after sitting or standing for too long. Think creaky, crunchy, and painful on the daily.

2. Post-Laminectomy Syndrome (aka Failed Back Surgery Syndrome)

This one stings a little—not just physically, but emotionally too. It’s what doctors call it when you’ve had spinal surgery (in my case, a laminectomy and fusion) but the pain didn’t get better—it got worse. This phenomenon, often referred to as failed back surgery syndrome, encompasses a range of experiences and challenges. It doesn’t mean the surgery was done wrong, but it does indicate that nerves didn’t heal as expected, scar tissue may have formed, or other issues are still causing pain. Patients often find themselves caught in a cycle of disappointment and frustration, as they navigate between doctors and treatment plans while seeking effective relief.

It’s a frustrating and misunderstood condition that often requires long-term management, including physical therapy [which I am not a candidate for at all according to my Neuro, as he is concerned that attempting it may lead to paralysis], medication adjustments, and sometimes even additional procedures. The emotional and physical toll it takes on individuals can feel overwhelming at times, leading to moments of despair. Yet, the journey towards understanding and coping with this condition is essential, as many strive to find effective treatments and strategies for improvement. Despite the challenges, the pursuit of a better quality of life remains a hopeful endeavor for many. In my case, however, we are approaching the end of the road with what we can do, as options seem to be dwindling, leaving me to ponder what the future holds while seeking comfort in the support of loved ones and the community around me.

3. Lumbar Radiculitis [New]

This is nerve pain in the lower back that radiates down into the legs. It’s caused by inflammation or compression of spinal nerves. Basically, if you’ve ever had sciatica- This is more like that but on monster steroids—or what feels like electric shocks, burning, or numbness down one or both legs—that’s what we’re dealing with here. It adds a layer of unpredictability to daily movement and comfort.

4. Cervical Spondylosis [New]

Similar to lumbar spondylosis, but this one is in the neck (cervical spine). It involves disc degeneration and arthritis in the upper spine, which can cause neck stiffness, headaches, nerve pain in the shoulders and arms, and even dizziness. For me, this shows up as a tight neck, tingling down my arms, and that “off-balance” feeling that sometimes makes walking a challenge.

Day One: The Good, The Foggy, and the Jittery

Let’s start with Flexeril. I took it last night and actually got some of the best sleep I’ve had in ages, feeling deeply rested as I drifted off into a peaceful slumber free from interruptions. Total win, right? Sort of. I woke up groggy and sluggish, like my body hit the snooze button even though I was upright and trying to start my day. It was as if the soothing effects of the medication wrapped me in a cozy blanket that I couldn’t quite shake off. Despite my attempts to shake off the drowsiness with a refreshing shower and a cup of coffee, the lingering fatigue hung over me like a cloud, making it challenging to focus on my tasks. I couldn’t help but wonder if the deep sleep was truly worth the lethargy that followed, as I navigated through the morning feeling like I was moving in slow motion.

Now, Cymbalta was prescribed for the morning because, according to my doctor, it would “give me a bit of energy” and help me feel more alert throughout the day. As someone with ADHD, I already raised an eyebrow at that advice—but in the spirit of trying to improve my daily functioning, I followed instructions anyway. I took it after my mushroom coffee and the usual meds I rely on, hoping for a positive change. However, within 30 minutes, I was jittery, shaky, and foggy, and I was already wondering if I’d made a mistake by trusting this regimen. My mind raced with a barrage of chaotic thoughts, making it difficult to focus on anything constructive. I managed to drop two of the kids off at work, their cheerful chatter contrasting sharply with my unease, and came right back home to lie down, feeling completely drained and dizzy. The experience was disheartening, as I had hoped for a boost that would help me feel more engaged with my responsibilities, but instead, I was left feeling a sense of defeat, questioning if the prescribed treatment was truly the right choice for me.

A few hours later, the shakiness wore off, but I still felt like I’d been run over. This wasn’t what I’d call “energized.” This was more like nervous system overload meets flu fatigue.

The Realities of Adding New Meds to a Complex System

When you’re already dealing with a chronically overactive, sensitive body, adding anything new—especially prescription meds—can be a gamble. I’ve always been cautious about what I allow into my body. I’ve never taken narcotics or opioids regularly, even after surgery. The thought of becoming dependent on substances that alter my state of being has always made me wary. I don’t abuse substances, and I keep a close eye on what does or doesn’t work for me, because I have to.

Again, with medications like Cymbalta, it seems to be very hit-or-miss in the chronic illness community. Some folks tolerate it well and experience real relief, reporting significant improvements in their day-to-day functioning. Their testimonies about reduction in pain or anxiety often seem promising and tempting. Others, however, struggle with intense side effects that can leave them feeling worse than before, or have to be slowly weaned off the medication as they experience adverse reactions. Correlating experiences with medications like Lyrica has added to the complexity of making informed choices. This back-and-forth within the community leaves many of us in a state of uncertainty.

So, I’m watching this one closely before I make any long-term decisions. I feel it’s vital to weigh all options carefully. Consulting with healthcare providers, reading up on others’ experiences, and taking note of my own body’s response are all part of this process. It’s not just about easing symptoms; it’s about finding a balance that supports my body’s unique needs without compromising my overall wellness. Therefore, I remain vigilant and informed, as I continue to embark on this journey of managing my health.

Tips for Anyone Starting a New Medication:

1. Track Everything – Time taken, how you felt before and after, what you ate, and what other meds you combined it with. It helps a lot when you need to report symptoms or patterns.
2. Give It Time—But Know Your Limits – Most medications need a few days to level out in your system, but if something feels wrong, don’t ignore it. Your body will tell you what it can or cannot handle.
3. You Are Your Best Advocate – Speak up. Ask questions. Be honest with your providers. No one knows what it feels like to live in your body except you.
4. Take Peer Advice Lightly – Forums and community groups can be incredibly helpful, but don’t let someone else’s horror story (or success story) dictate your expectations. Your response may be completely different.

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Here’s to Learning and Advocating for Your Best Self

This could be the start of something that helps—or it could be a learning experience I pivot away from. Either way, I’ll keep sharing my journey with those of you walking similar paths. In this unpredictable journey of life, it’s essential to embrace each twist and turn. Every situation can be an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine our understanding of what truly matters to us.

To all my fellow spoonies and chronic warriors: you are not alone. It’s so important to remind ourselves of this truth, especially on the tough days. Stay informed, stay mindful, and always trust your intuition. Lean on the support of community, and remember that your experiences are valid. Share your stories, connect with others, and don’t hesitate to seek help when you need it. Together, we can navigate these challenges, uplift one another, and discover new strengths within ourselves. Let’s keep this conversation going, as every step forward is a testament to our resilience and determination.

Much love and many blessings,
Mrs. B