I know it doesn't work for everyone, but I am having limited success with oxycontin for primary pain control, with percocet for breakthrough. I'm on low doses of both - 20 mg oxycontin twice a day, with one to two percocet every four hours between - but it's working OK with no side effects. By OK, I mean it keeps the pain to a level that still allows me to function in day-to-day life without spacing me out.
I avoid activities that I know will increase the pain levels, although that in itself limits my lifestyle. Distracting myself with gardening and crafts assists the meds to do their work, and although I am not pain-free, I am enjoying some level of pain control.
Good luck, and gentle pain-free hugs,
Nancy in NB
Help spread the word. Find out more about National Invisible Chronic Illness Awareness Week September 23-29, 2002, at http://www.invisibleillness.com