The mom I wrote about with arthritis of the cervical spine has now been seen by
a specialist who stated her arthritis is much further advanced than the other MD
thought, the area between the C3 and C4 will be fused in two to three years and
she will be in less pain then, but for now her pain is increasing not only
because of the arthritis, but also from a bone spur into her spinal cord.  This
is , they think, a result of an auto accident.  The Motrin is not controlling
her pain, and she is very depressed and in pain most of the time.  He recomends
Elavil,(Amitriptyline HC) 25 mg tid and Feldene(piroxicam).  He stated they were
safe with breastfeeding, but the PNP at the base questioned this.  Mom is
nursing a 15 lb 6 month old, and stated if she cannot breastfeed and take this
medication or another as effective, she will stop breastfeeding, as the pain is
so great she cannot enjoy being with her baby or her family.
Any suggestions and recommendations?
Thanks for your input!

Jeanette Panchula, BSW, RN, IBCLC - Puerto Rico
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