Hello, Mawalton, I almost hate to suggest this because we are all so diferent. But John is experiencing constipation or the runs, depending on the day. When he is stopped up, he takes 1 Correctol[some days just a half]. This is a woman's laxitive and very gentle.It has worked for him for almost a month now.Can't help with the other pain issue- it sounds really tough to deal with. Hope you both can keep your spirits up. Amy