In my follow-up with Dr. Torres (Doctor filling in for Dr. Davis while away for six weeks) on June 18, I remained calm and respectful while pressing for answers—specifically around why additional oxycodone isn’t being considered despite increased pain, medication failures, and known contraindications. Below are key takeaways from her clinical notes, along with my commentary.

“Discogenic cervical pain. Chronic pain due to cervical spine stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and arthritis.”

→ This establishes that my pain is very real and anatomical—not vague or psychological. This matters.

“Celebrex 100 mg BID… Patient prefers to discontinue and states he would like to focus on medications that work for him.”

→ I gave Celebrex an honest try. It didn’t work. I’m cooperating—just asking for functional care, not miracles.

“Gabapentin 600 mg TID… Unable to tolerate higher doses due to side effects… primary pain not being neuropathic.”

→ This confirms what I’ve said all along: gabapentin doesn’t target my actual source of pain. Yet it remains part of the ‘plan.’

“I am not patient’s PCP… I cannot make changes… I am not sure if his PCP would agree.”

→ Translation: no one will take responsibility. Everyone points to someone else.

“Current dose of opioids is at a higher dose than I am comfortable managing…”

→ My dose is 60mg/day. This is *not* high for someone with a fused spine, and it’s well below CDC red flags. Yet fear still dominates.

“Patient… believes [oxycodone] provides the most relief without adverse effects.”

→ Correct. That’s why I’ve been asking—repeatedly—for a simple return to the regimen that worked.

“Option for consultation with outside pain clinic.”

→ I was told I was too complex for the regular clinic. But now they want to pass the buck again.

At the end of the visit, Dr. Torres did not make any changes. She stated she would consult with the chronic pain pharmacist and revisit things in a week. Once again, the burden of care is shifted — and the clock keeps ticking for patients like me who are simply trying to live without suffering.