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lobstershack
Australia
250 Posts |
 Posted - 10/16/2005 : 21:06:54
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This board has truly been a source of hope and inspiration at times when it very much seemed out of hand's grasp and mind's eye. The people monitoring it as well as all contributors are bright, caring, and honest.
The past few weeks and months have been a time of what I like to think of as prolific reflection; a keen scan of exactly what needs to be done in order to continue my healing.
I recently made an appointment with Dr. Sarno, spoke to him over the phone, albeit feeling very anxious and scrambling trying to truncate an entire history in a matter of minutes. He surmised based on our conversation that many of the symptoms I was describing did in fact sound psychosomatic.
He was concerned about whether or not I could indeed pay his fee, to which I replied yes. And while it is a steep fee, I feel it is one worth it's weight in gold.
I took a day off of work so I could visit Sarno tomorrow--how only sees patients for a three hour window on odd days of the week.
The whole concept just seems to surreal. Yes, there is a part of me that is terrified to leave this all behind, but I'm closer than ever to the answer. And I am finally ready to accept it.
Based on my articulations the doctor mentioned that I would probably need psychtherapy, and if I was willing to (temporarily) leave my current psychologist.
In the past when I was quote, making the rounds, I would bring lists of symptoms and questions. I have compiled any so far, and upon reflection, do not think I will see the idea through. But I am afraid that there is so much to tell him in the span of an hour, that I am bound to leave an important detail out, or a question unasked.
Above all, please, keep me in your prayers if just for an evening and wish me luck.
I am so blessed that I am being offered this opportunity: a solution to a very long term problem. I'm dazzled.
Seth |
Edited by - lobstershack on 10/16/2005 21:23:43 |
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pault
USA
169 Posts |
Posted - 10/17/2005 : 05:04:01
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| Good luck,let us know how you make out! Paul. |
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cindy_gail
22 Posts |
Posted - 10/17/2005 : 07:30:44
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Seth,
I just know that you'll walk out of there feeling empowered. It doesn't matter if you don't get every little detail into that one hour. He's heard it all a zillion times and then some. It's another important part of your journey. I too will be interested to heard what the experienced was like. Best of luck to you. I'm relatively new on here, but a Sarno reader for a long time. Only now getting really really serious about putting actions to thought.
Cindy |
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HilaryN
United Kingdom
879 Posts |
Posted - 10/17/2005 : 12:55:31
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I'm too late, but all the best, anyway. I'm so envious!
Hilary |
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marytabby
USA
545 Posts |
Posted - 10/17/2005 : 16:32:32
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| Good luck. Let us know how it went with the MAN |
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almost there
109 Posts |
Posted - 10/17/2005 : 19:14:27
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Seth-
Good luck tomorrow...you will be in my prayers....so that you remember everything you want to tell Dr. Sarno...perhaps you should made a little list with one or two words for each subject...go through them one at a time and don't leave until your list is done...we'll all be anxious to hear how it goes! |
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lobstershack
Australia
250 Posts |
Posted - 10/18/2005 : 19:07:53
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I did not make a list. Think about it I did, but after so many years of lists: fears, worries, symptoms, pains, problems, I decided to remain secure and confident in the fact that everything that need be covered would.
To say the Rusk institute is bustling would be an understatement. Harried and hectic, Dr. Sarno's small office proved a welcome respite. His office assistant made clear to me on the phone when I made the appointment that Dr. Sarno is always on time. Said notion is in fact hard-core truism, for there I was, wandering about the hall trying to find the Doctor's office, when no sooner did she peak her head out of the door and beckon me in.
I had to pee. I was nervous. So I did.
The first thing I expressed to him was how utterly surreal this whole meeting was. He quickly grounded me and got down to business. There is no wasting time with Sarno.
We did not go though my entire history, rather he kept the entire hour quite in check. I explained to him the symptoms I was experiencing presently, those first to emerge, and just two of the diagnoses I received before he began asking questions about me, my family life, my parents, and my siblings.
The examination came next. Part of this process involved pressing certain trigger points throughout the body. This was most interesting. Many of these points were in fact very tender when pressed—although it was difficult for me to accurately discern because I was almost praying that they would feel amiss—while others felt normal. I imagine that even if one were not to have any tenderness whatsoever, a TMS diagnosis would be within reason, although I could be wrong.
Afterwards the doctor concluded that I was a classic TMS case and that I was to not only attend the meeting later that evening, but commence psychotherapy as well. He gave me the name of a Doctor who actually has office hours in Westchester.
I asked him about my psychotropic medication, to which he responded that taking such meds is perfectly fine.
I met some friends for lunch and before I finished my last gulp of the steamy Chinese broth, it was back off to the institute for the lecture.
Being an avid reader of this board and pertinent literature, I must say that I did not actually learn much per se, although the very act of sitting there and listening to the Doctor articulate began to paint what was before a Wolff pencil sketch.
Dr. Sarno, as we already know, is supremely bright, caring, humorous, and insightful. He listens, but is quick to cut to the heart of the matter, rather than allow a TMS'er muse his or her way into medical oblivion.
He gave me a packet to read and homework to complete. I am to begin psychotherapy immediately--I already set up my appointment--and attend another meeting in the beginning of November.
I am so very glad that I decided to go ahead with this decision. I now realize that I am very much in the cohort of patients which need a diagnosis, which need reassurance. Even though his fee is steep, you are--at least from what I gathered--a patient of his for life.
So there you have it. My truncated tale of a young man and his encounters with a very real pioneer. A modern day sage. One displaying absolutely no pretensions, surrounding himself not with pomp and circumstance, but with those truly in need. And boy did he deliver the goods.
I encourage everyone who is within Dr. Sarno's geographic purview to meet with him. Truly and totally surreal.
Seth |
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n/a
560 Posts |
Posted - 10/18/2005 : 19:27:37
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For those who cannot see a TMS doc but have gone though all the medical tests with no answers I urge you not to be discouraged. Many of us on this board- myself included- have diagnosed themselves after having many tests done to them. I do not plan to go back to a doctor for this condition again. One must have full confidence that in the absence of any serious disease that they have TMS and proceed with confidence with the treatment program. Going to see Dr. Sarno or any other TMS doc will be like paying someone to tell you something you already know to be true. Sadly, this is what Seth had to do even though he is a classic TMS case even without Dr. Sarno telling us so. But many people feel they need that extra re-assurance.
Today I had one of the most painful days I have had in a long time, and I am still not going to the doctor because I am 100% convinced that I have TMS and that I have to heal myself. |
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Stryder
686 Posts |
Posted - 10/18/2005 : 20:11:08
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quote:
Originally posted by PeterMcKay
Going to see Dr. Sarno or any other TMS doc will be like paying someone to tell you something you already know to be true .... But many people feel they need that extra re-assurance.
I think what it boils down to is do whatever you need to do to convince yourself the TMS diagnosis is correct. Once you truly buy in then you are on your way to recovery.
Sorry to hear that you had a less than great day, Peter, a better day awaits all of us tomorrow.
Take care, -Stryder |
Edited by - Stryder on 10/19/2005 11:00:44 |
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Suz
559 Posts |
Posted - 10/19/2005 : 11:28:00
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Peter,
I entirely disagree. I am thrilled that I went to see Dr. Sarno - hearing him and talking to him had a profound affect on my unconsious. It is very powerful - much more than just reading. I do not mean to worry people who don't live in the New York or Connecticut area - but if you do and are struggling, - go - run to him. It makes a world of difference. After all, you may think you know you have TMS, but the unconscious may not have heard it clear enough to make the change. Seeing Sarno clinched it for me. I then went to see one of his psychologists in Westchester who really helped me. This was the last doctor I shall ever see for my back and it changed my life
Suz |
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almost there
109 Posts |
Posted - 10/19/2005 : 11:43:15
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Seth-
Thank you for sharing your meeting with Dr. Sarno....I agree that actually seeing him and hearing his voice has got to re-inforce his message....money well spent! |
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n/a
560 Posts |
Posted - 10/19/2005 : 12:08:27
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I am already convinced. I honestly don't know what else he could possibly say to me that would convince me further. I also have his video and everything he says to all his patients are in this video. But like I said in my original posting "But many people feel they need that extra re-assurance."
My intent was to actually encourage people out there who cannot get to a TMS doc for a variety of reasons. Many people are forced to make the diagnosis on their own, me being one of them.
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cindy_gail
22 Posts |
Posted - 10/19/2005 : 13:35:50
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| I say whatever it takes for each and every one of us. I'm glad your visit with Sarno was so wonderful. I too, am envious, but just reading your words is helpful. |
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cindy_gail
22 Posts |
Posted - 10/19/2005 : 13:42:23
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Seth,
Don't mean to be intrusive, but when you asked Sarno about psychotropic meds, did he say all (antidepressants, antipsychotics, tranquilizers, etc.) or what? Just curious as to whether he differentiated. Thanks. |
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Suz
559 Posts |
Posted - 10/19/2005 : 14:27:35
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| I understand what you are saying, Peter. You are absolutely right that it is very possible to get better without seeing Sarno. We have so many tools at our disposal - such as the books, and videos (very good idea). One can also opt to go to a psychologist who is versed in Freudian therapy. It is a luxury to see him. I also feel this forum is very helpful. I apologize if my post seemed ebrasive |
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lobstershack
Australia
250 Posts |
Posted - 10/20/2005 : 20:15:02
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Cindy, the impression I received was that psychotropic medications were absolutely fine, as they allow one to achieve a state whereby the TMS work becomes managable.
When I saw Sarno I did not bring any of my previous lab work--the only actual scans I ever receieved were CT scans of my head to make sure I didn't have anything going on up there--nor did I have the time to discuss all previous diagnoses. I am going to assume that if I was accepted into the program that marshalling through all of this evidence was in fact not necessary?
Also, assuming that I did not respond to any of the tender points, could I have received a diagnosis of TMS? I'm curious as to how this factors in.
Seth |
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n/a
560 Posts |
Posted - 10/21/2005 : 05:04:33
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| Dr. Sarno says in Healing Back Pain: "Though we must indentify the structures involved in each case, this is the least important part of the consultation. Each encounter with a patient is an excursion into tha person's life. After we have established which body parts are involved that information must be put aside, for we do not work on the muscles, nerves and ligaments directly. Something in that person's emotional life that might have played a role in producing the symptoms must be addressed." (page 26) |
Edited by - n/a on 10/21/2005 05:06:50 |
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wrldtrv
666 Posts |
Posted - 10/23/2005 : 20:49:47
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| Regarding your conversation with Sarno, I sent him an email a few weeks ago asking him if my symptoms (MS-like symptoms) sounded like TMS...and after a couple of weeks I received this curious reply: "I can't help you. Unfortunately, there are no TMS people in your state." Of course, I was bewildered. What could "I can't help you" mean? A little elaboration would have been helpful. Did it mean he didn't know what to make of my symptoms? Or did it mean he was not interested in answering my questions because I live too far to book an appt with him? Or was it because there are no TMS therapists in my state? Maybe some of you who know him better have a clue. |
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Dave
USA
1864 Posts |
Posted - 10/24/2005 : 08:45:40
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| You need to understand it from Dr. Sarno's perspective. He cannot give anything resembling a diagnosis based on an E-mail. He has a strict rule that he only sees patients in the New York area because it is the only way he can ensure follow-up care. He probably receives hundreds of letters and E-mails every month from people he is unable to help, and his schedule is absolutely filled with those who he can help. He could choose to ignore all such messages, but he takes the time to reply. |
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PeterW
Canada
102 Posts |
Posted - 10/24/2005 : 12:00:24
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I got a similar reply when I sent Dr. Sarno an email weeks ago. It said "I am sorry but I cannot advise you. Dr. Sopher is apparently closest to you. Dr. Sarno."
I can totally see how he must be bombarded with emails from desperate folks all over the world and is kept plenty busy at home. Giving a detailed response to anybody who contacted him would consume all his time and energy. In hindsight it was silly of me to expect advice or a diagnosis from an email and I'm surprised he even took the time to reply. Also, If I'm not mistaken he's now over 80 years old - it's amazing that he's still practicing at all.
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Allan
USA
226 Posts |
Posted - 10/24/2005 : 17:50:25
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Peter.
On one of the book jackets it indicates Dr. Sarno's year of birth as 1923. So, he must be close to 82. I think that it would be great if someone could find out his date of birth so we could all send him a birthday greating via email, or better yet a birthday card.
Allan. |
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Tomorrow is the Day...
