I have a chronic pain condition and when in the UK managed this with Chriopractic treatment plus, diclofenic, Paracetomal and Dihydracodeine. Since moving to Portugal I have discovered that I am unable to get Dihydracodeine over here. I have tried alternatives such as Tramidol but nothing works.
Does anyone now if it is possible to have medications prescribed and sent in from the UK? My old GP in the UK is unable to help as we are not registered with her now. We are here for two years due to my husbands work and I would hate to have to move myself and the kids back home just for some painkillers!
My GP has suggested I see an Orthapedic Specialist but I have already done this in the UK. I suffer from needle phobia so there is now way I could have steroid injections!
You need to go and see the orthapedic specialist in Portugal (, A fresh pair of eyes???). He may well have a different approach to your condition. Painkillers may not be the only answer to your problem.
Dihydrocodeine can be addictive (and can be mind altering) and isnt something you should rely on for the long term if you can help it.
That said, have you checked to see if you can buy it over the counter in Portugal? Some European countries sell it in very small doses. Altho in other countries (non european) it is concidered an illegal drug!!??
So dont write off the specialist route before you've tried it
Jo xxx
