Los Angeles Times

Commentary: Clampdown on opioids is hurting pain patients

In the summer of 1994, I was working at my desk at the Department of Justice when my back started to burn. Moments later, my body seized up and I fell to the floor. Suddenly, at the age of 30, I was no longer able to sit or stand. I could barely walk short distances. These limitations, related to a surgical mishap, would continue for almost 20 years.

After dozens of failed treatments, I reluctantly tried prescription opioids.

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