Jenn, I've had a lucky nearly fifty years, I guess, not having dealt with the kind of pain you're going through, but I've watched family members, and understand some what you're talking about when it comes to the meds -- the spacey feeling is icky, but it helps you get through the most painful part and sleep -- which is pretty essential to the healing process!

So, use the meds, even though you don't like them, for a couple of days, rest as much as possible, and then kind of wean yourself off them, still keeping the pain managed -- advil or something in their place, with the pain pills at bed time. I'm told it's easier to deal with the pain by taking the meds before you have to play "catch up" with it -- don't wait til you're at 8 to deal with it! (especially if you have to keep up with your munchkin!)

Karen in Boise