Question
Dr Ryan,  My husband was in an accident where his pelvis was broken in several places.  The pelvis itself has healed nicely but he is in a large amount of pain in his leg, lower back, and butt ( I tried to think of a better word for butt, but there's no polite way to say his butt cheek hurts).  He had an emg that showed nerve damage to his L5 nerve and an MRI that showed damage to the same area.  The doctor said the damage is 'within normal range' and he shouldn't be in pain.  We've had two orthopedic surgeons look at him and both acted like he was fine.  Is there another kind of doctor that would be better suited for this kind of injury and do you know of any really good ones (preferably in Oklahoma but we are willing to travel) that would be willing to take workers comp insurance.  He is in so much pain all the time and I just don't know how to help him.  Thank you!  Junel  

Answer
I would recommend that your husband see a neurosurgeon or neurologist for another opinion.  These types of doctors specialize in nerve damage and back surgery.  They are in a better position to understand nerve damage and the related nerve pain than an orthopedic physician that specializes in bones and fractures.  

It may be that your husband is caught in the workers comp system that seeks to return people to work rather than fix the problem completely.  Unfortunately, many people are at the mercy of that process and the system uses its doctors to its own advantage, not necessarily for the patient's advantage.  If possible, get an independent neurosurgeon/neurologist to review your husband's records and films.  At the very least, he should be getting some kind of pain relief medication.

Thank you for your question, Junel.  I hope that my answer points you toward some help.