In the planning stages leading up to my hysterectomy in Celaya, Guanajuato, I extensively researched pain management options online, in conversations with other expats and nationals, and during my many consultations with the multiple doctors I was vetting for a rather complicated surgery.
In addition to assessing the expertise of the prospective surgeons, I asked each one whether or not narcotic pain management or their equivalents would be available and used for post-surgery pain and recovery.
Each time I was answered with a “no” or a “well, not exactly”–that there was a “concern of addiction” with meds of that class, but that narcotic type medications would be available and sufficient for managing my pain for the rather extensive procedure that I needed.Â
Stoicism Has Its Place, But This was Not One of Them
Having gone through two previous abdominal surgeries in the States (bringing life into this world and then saving mine), I knew firsthand how important adequate and appropriate pain management would be in those first few days post surgery.
I did not want to be uninformed, unprepared nor suffer needlessly.
When I asked what these “other options” were, I was told that a combination of paracetamol (Tylenol), non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and other non-opiate analgesics, such as Ketorolaco (for light to moderate postoperative pain) would be used. Light to moderate? Hmmmm….
I didn’t think that any of those options by themselves nor in combination with each other were going to be enough. I seriously contemplated returning to the States for this surgery, even though none of the logistics were convenient nor logical.
Mexico, My Home
I decided to stay, plan for and literally pray for the best.
The thought of going forward with major surgery with what seemed like nothing more than slightly stronger versions of Tylenol and Motrin was not an easy reality to wrap my head around.Â
I would read online, “oh, narcotics are available in Mexico, you just have to find the right doctor”, never really quite understanding what that meant, where to go, nor who to ask for. I hadn’t yet cracked the secret code on this now vital detail of my life as an immigrant to Mexico.
Post-Surgery Pain
Waking up from general anesthesia after a total hysterectomy that included the removal of a large (thankfully non-cancerous tumor) and extensive endometriosis was something akin to an out-of-body experience. One of the surgeons said, and I quote, that “it looked like a bomb had gone off inside me”. Lovely.Â
Life, always an adventure, isn’t it?
Screaming and crying through the haze of pain-induced delirium as they wheeled me into my recovery room, when I saw my husband Frank, I squeezed the very life out of his hand, begging him to help me–mustering all of my strength to tell him that what I was experiencing was “barbaric”. Poor guy, there was really nothing he could do, watching his wife in what surely must have looked like something out of a scene from the Exorcist.
I am strong, I am tough, but this was an otherworldly experience of physical pain. There were whispered discussions of giving me another spinal block but that was not an option I would entertain. Feeling and being able to use my legs was part of pulling myself out of this compromised state sooner than later. Getting home to my family asap was my laser focus and motivation.
God as my witness, had it not been for mi querida Doctora Margarita de MichoacĂĄn, who did not leave my side for those first 24 hours–seeing to it that I was being administered the maximum amount of approved non-narcotic meds and that I was at long last paid a midnight visit by the anesthesiologist himself to authorize two single-use injections of morphine (finally!), who knows if I would have survived the night with all strands of hair and my sanity still intact.
“That Which Does Not Kill You…”
Five months into my recovery from this abdominal surgery, whilst doing yoga of all things at our home in San Miguel de Allende, two of the discs in my back herniated and onto the floor I fell like a sack of potatoes. Instantly paralyzed on the left side of my body, unable to care for myself and needing to depend on my husband to carry me from point A to point B in the days leading up to my spinal surgery (and many after), 2015 was a bit of a rough year for me.Â
MRI in Querétero
My first attempt at getting my MRI was a miserable fail due to the fact I was unable to lie on my back for the required 45 minutes. Embarrassed, frustrated and feeling both defeat and surrender, I rescheduled for several days later, this time under IV sedation, which I was dearly thankful was even an option.

My Physical Therapist Dra. Rosario knew that the weekend ahead (while I awaited my surgery) would be a long and unbearable one for me without some type of effective pain relief.Â
She personally escorted us–my husband and myself–to the offices of Dr. Paulo GonzalĂ©z of QuerĂ©taro–anesthesiologist, angolĂłgo and paliativista–a specialist in the management of advanced pain conditions that is licensed to prescribe opiates. I sure wish I had known about this specialty and Dr. Paulo himself prior to my abdominal surgery! Live and learn!
We arrived at Dr. Paulo’s office and without any intake paperwork or a long office wait, my husband and both doctors lifted me up onto the treatment table. Dr. Paulo began an IV concoction of morphine and some other meds and for the first time in a very long six days since my spinal injury, I at last had a noticeable break from the unbearable pain.
Tears of ReliefÂ
Dr. Paulo monitored my vital signs throughout this process, asking me every few minutes how I was feeling, and adjusted the meds as needed. I was able to take my first full, deep breaths since my discs had herniated.
He wrote me a prescription for a variety of pain and anti-inflammatory medications–including morphine–to use while waiting for my surgery and as needed for post-surgery pain. We needed to go to a Farmacia Especializada (specialty pharmacy) to get these prescriptions filled where my husband Frank was required to show his ID and sign several pages of paperwork.Â
As luck and design would have it, Dr. Paulo ended up being the anesthesiologist during the six-hour spinal surgery, who together with my neurosurgeon Dr. Salvador GalvĂĄn, the amazing OR staff, recovery nurses and a fair share of my own grit and gumption, put Humpty Dumpty back together again and allowed me to slowly but surely regain the gift of walking.
I am a pragmatic, look at the glass half full kind of person, and so I choose to look at these experiences as an opportunity to understand how to navigate the medical system here in my beloved, adopted country of Mexico and to pay it forward and help others if I am able to.
Is Effective Pain Management Available in Mexico?
So, yes, effective pain management is available here in Mexico, it is just a matter of finding the right doctor, and the right support team and pharmacy(s) to guide you through what could be an otherwise overwhelming, unknown path–most especially in the middle of a medical crisis.Â
I do hope this information proves helpful to others–that was my motivation after all for sharing these personal stories of challenge, survival, and yes, triumph.Â
In peace and health to you all…
Saludos,
Katie O’Grady
For the full stories on the two surgeries referenced in this article, click on the links below:
Spinal Surgery in Mexico~From Wheelchair to Walking
Do you have your own pain management in Mexico experience? If so, please feel free to share in the comments section below. Thank you. đ
Subscribe:
Facebook:
*Protect yourself and your loved ones with an Expat Travel Insurance Policy & Carbon Monoxide Detectors for both home and travel.
Although I don’t live in Mexico, I do visit often and your detailed descriptions of practical issues are invaluable. I always pass them on. Thanks.
Thank you so much Kathie,
I appreciate your feedback and do hope that via the sharing of some otherwise painful and personal life experiences, that I can help inform and empower others…
Cheers,
Katie đ
Thank you for the info. I am having a redo Nissan fundoplication in Guad in April 18. It is laproscopic and the pain from the gas used to inflate the abdomin post op is excruciating. My last surgery in the U.S. I had 24 hours of morphine every two hours. I got the same vague answers from my surgeon. How do I make sure I will have the necessary pain control post op? I go to hospital puerto hierro sur
Hello Robbin,
Uiff, I know firsthand how very painful that abdominal gas can be!
I would for sure consult with an angolĂłgo and paliativista—a doctor that specializes in the pain management of advanced conditions and is licensed to prescribe opiates, like morphine—to try and set up a treatment plan prior to your procedure.
Wishing you the best,
Katie
Hello Katie,
I came across your website after a long a difficult battle I find myself a part of here in Mexico. I am American and my husband is a Mexican national we recently moved back down here to be close to his family, splitting our time between Tijuana and Los Mochis. Unfortunately, in the US I have long battled severe chronic back pain and it’s becoming more clear that another back surgery is around the corner. To put it bluntly I’m enduring hell trying to find a doctor that is able and willing to help me. I am desperate to talk to anyone who understands what I’m going through and could maybe offer me some advise. Anything you could share with me anything at all be so very appreciated. Thank you very much. Chanel Rienstra Roman
Hi Chanel,
I am so very sorry to hear of your situation.
I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Salvador Galvan, the neurosurgeon in QuerĂ©tero who returned to me the gift of walking.
Please pm me for his contact information at losogradysinmexico@gmail.com.
Best Regards,
Katie
I have angleosing Spondylitis and have problems finding a pain specialist in the United States can you please forward me dr. Paulos contact information dromgoole619@gmail.com
Greetings Timothy,
I am happy to forward along to you Dr. Paulo’s contact info.
Please look for an email from losogradysinmexico@gmail.com
Best,
Katie
I need help I have been in extreme pain since major spine fusion for shermans kyphosis I live in Illinois and no Dr. or pain clinic will prescribe any meds that will help. I have no quality of life and am at my wits end I have tried every therapy from injections to snake oil I need releif from my daily misery any contact info on Dr. Paulo and pharmacies would be a godsend.Please Help Me
Jason,
I sent you a pm.
Kindly confirm if you received it.
Best Regards,
Katie
Hello Kati I live in Reno Nv and have been going to a pain management doctor for the past 7 years. My problem is my husband wants us to retire in PV Mexico, do you know of any pain management doctors there? I don’t know what the update on Opioids 2017 in PV are and cant seem to find it on the web. I feel like I’m in the dark ages. if you have any info please email me back. Thank you!
Hi Patricia,
I have contacted my pain specialist in Querétero on your behalf to see if he is able to recommend a colleague here in this region.
I will let you know.
Best Regards,
Katie
My husband and I are planning to retire to San Miguel de Allende and we have questions about chronic pain management in Mexico. Can you email me?
Best regards,
Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth,
My apologies for the delay in seeing and approving this comment to my blog. We have been in communications and I trust that you will find the information and contacts that you need to best serve you and your husband in SMA.
Best Regards,
Katie
Hello, I am very happy to have found this blog. I am moving to Peurto Vallarta in a little over a week and I suffer from what they are saying here in the states from either severe ovarian cysts or endometreosis. I have been on norco for the past 2 years and it has helped my daily life tremendously, but I am worried that I will not be able to continue the same treatment and be in severe pain again. Is there any way that you may forward my information to your doctor so that I may be treated without getting to the point of cringing everytime I move?
My email is marykranz1985@outlook.com
I would be very appreciative of your help.
Thanks again,
Mary K.
Hi Mary K,
I sent you a pm about a week ago.
Kindly let me know if you are in receipt of it.
Thank you,
Katie
Hello Kaitie,
This was very informative and I’m grateful for the information. I am unable to locate any contact information for dr. Paulo and I was hoping that you might have a contact number or email address for him. If so I would be grateful if you could contact me with that information. Thank you very much,
Beth
bmurphy824@msn.com
Hello Beth,
I am happy this information was of help to you.
Dr. Paulo is a pain specialist located in Querétero, Mexico.
I am happy to email you his contact information and will do so after responding here.
Best Regards,
Katie
Hi, my wife has severe back pain, I would like for you to please forward the information of the Dr. that helped you. We have tried everything here in the states and no Dr. has helped her yet. I would like to give this a chance. I thank you in advance if you would please do this for me. My email, kcshikles@att.net
Kevin S.
Hello Kevin,
I am very sympathetic to your wife’s situation.
I will email you my neurosurgeon’s contact information.
Best,
Katie
tramadol is available over the counter. I rarely need it / thankfully, but when I have, a small dose has proven effective. BTW redheads have different reactions to pain and anesthesia … especially at the dentist. I have a wonderful dentist here in the Patzcuaro area that understands this and uses a different technique when i am in the chair.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9466103
Hi Katie,
I have had two major surgeries in Mexico as a visitor and found the pain management to be barbaric. I am moving to Lake Chapala later this month. But I never again want to wake up from surgery panicked instantly and for the first week by unbearable pain. Will you please message me your pain docs contact info so I can ask for a referral to a pain doc Lakeside or in Guad? I’ll be having knee replacement next year and want a relationship set up in advance with a doc able and willing to provide post-op opiates. Thank you!
Hi Sara,
Smart thinking…
I will p.m. you Dr. Paolo’s contact info. in the hopes that he will have a reputable contact for you in the Lake Chapala/Guadalajara area.
Best Regards,
Katie
I am coming to Puerto Vallarta for a procedure called Disco-gel with a Dr Jorge Porto. It is minimally invasive. I have had many spinal surgeries and the only part I have that is not fused is my lumbar. USA Drs say there is nothing more they can offer. My lumbar now has 4 levels ruptured . I have been on morphine for a few years now in USA. To have the procedure offered to me by DrPorto( please God I hope he is good and it works) I must stay for 45 days. . So I have two questions. Do you or your doctors know anything about this doctor and this procedure and since I will be there over a month is there a clinic I could obtained my regular medication while there since I can not travel with more than 30 day supply into MX. Thank you for any help you can provide me.
Hi Rose,
All of my contacts for my spinal surgery are based in Querétero, Central Mexico.
I recommend that you contact Pamela Tompson at pamela@healthcareresourcespv.com for your specific questions.
She is the go-to person in the Vallarta area for medical referrals.
Best Regards,
Katie
Katie,
I am just a disabled veteran in the U.S., who, after four failed spinal surgeries, wears a pain patch (and have been) for almost 7 years. Due to the ‘opioid epidemic’ here, they are taking away the only thing that keeps me walking and able to get out of bed.
Being honest, I am not moving to Mexico, but willing to travel in hopes of finding continued relief. If you could or would message me a reputable pain management doctor, I would be grateful. All I need is to continue my current regime, nothing outrageous. Just my pain patches. At 51 yrs old, I do not want to become bedridden.
Thank you for your time and assistance with any info you could send.
Hello Colin,
If you would like to send me an email at losogradysinmexico@gmail.com I would be happy to provide you with the names and contact information of the Neurosurgeon, Pain Specialist and Rehab Doctor that all helped to return to me an excellent quality of life.
Best Regards,
Katie
Hi Katie,
I live in Puerto Vallarta. I am forced to travel back and forth to the states for pain medication. I see that other people in the PV are have requested info. Can you help with and information on doctors in my area?
~Karhy
Hi Kathy,
Perhaps Pam Thompson could recommend a pain specialist to you in the PV area?
The one that helped me during my spinal surgery is in Queretero.
Best Regards,
Katie
Thanks so much for publishing your story with the back surgery. I was a yoga teacher and was showing a pose when clunk, it was done. Iâve had 3 back surgeries since then. Iâm contemplating a surgery to correct the scoliosis that has developed. I know that adequate pain management is the key to making it all work. Now I know the steps that are necessary to ensure that happens. MuchĂsimas gracias. Living here in San Miguel full time since 2014.
Oh my goodness, Darlene…
This is painfully reminiscent of what happened to me that fateful morning at my home in SMA while doing forehead to knee pose and out went 2 discs!
I am hopeful and prayerful that you will find the care and relief you need.
Un abrazo,
Katie xx
Katie I am a disabled veteran with rheumatoid arthritis and several hematologic diseases. I have been on controlled pain management since I was a teenager when I was first diagnosed with juvenile arthritis. The USA is getting ready to end opioid pain management for Medicare patients.
Do you know if your doctor prescribes longterm medication treatment or just short term?
Thank you
Christie
Hi Christie,
I am so very sorry to read of your trouble and pain.
If you would like to email me at losogradysinmexico@gmail.com I am happy to give you the contact information of physicians that we have personally worked with for both pain management and JRA issues.
Warm Regards,
Katie
Christie,
Where did you hear that medicare was getting ready to end opioid pain meds for those of us on medicare? I am already in a terrible way since they took me off my pain path after 8 years and are now giving me only three low dose hydrocodone a day. I want to know what is coming.
Thank you for your time
Katie,
Thank you for your blog. I have a really important question. I live in Arizona now and the border is about 5 hours away. Am I able to go to a pain specialist in Mexico and get my prescriptions filled there, then bring my meds back across the border to the U.S. How does it work for those of us who require better pain management than the U.S. allows right now? I have chronic severe pain all the time from injuries I received in 2002. It developed into Central Pain syndrome which is severe and does kill it’s victims very slowly! I am in a bad way and need to know how I can get life saving pain management in Mexico while living in Arizona. Please help if you can.
Hi Kimberly,
I am so sorry that you are having these challenges and hope that you will find a solution. I know firsthand how horrible debilitating pain is and am so sorry that your are suffering so.
I can only speak from my personal experience of seeking pain management within Mexico and do not know anything about getting US prescriptions filled here and then bringing them back with you to the U.S.
Perhaps some of the more active Mexico FB pages could offer you some insight from others that have been in a similar situation. Some of the more active ones are On The Road in Mexico and Puerto Vallarta Everything You Need or Want to Know
Best Regards, Katie
Oh my….I feel vindicated! I recently had a perforated Bowel and uterus, from diverticulitis. Also, a lovely case of sepsis. And a special colostomy! I too, am no baby, but I woke up in recovery screaming! Seriously….5 hours in my belly,and you give me Tramadol! The most miserable experience of my life. And yes I’ve had several surgeries…I dont even get anything for sutures…and I have a lot! Almost 5 months later, and I feel like I have PTSD! I’m due a reversal surgery, and if my surgeon doesnt make arrangements for adequate pain relief, I may actually return to the US, where i have Medicare. Next, research palliative care, hospice etc …in Mexico. I have helped nursing with terminal patients here, after huge arguments to bring them home. One still connected to a central line, they insisted he must have. He died 36 hours later….no pain meds either. And while I think the Drs are amazing, they are light years behind in this. And all this took place in Merida, which is touted as the new tourist medical location!
Hi Dany,
I cringed reading your story, as it hits very close to home. And while yes, I am so very and eternally grateful for the life-saving medical care I have received in country, you are right about the pain management and it not being up to par for situations requiring a higher level of pain control than tylenol, motrin and in your case, tramadol–which surprisingly enough was never offered to me for either my radical hysterectomy nor pre-spinal surgery pain, which was, downright excruciating. The pain specialist in QuerĂ©taro administered IV morphine in his office which gave me some temporary relief and then oral morphine for my recovery, but my neurosurgeon really didn’t want me taking it and in all honesty, I hate the stuff and had a pretty yucky reaction to it and so opted for the pain instead. Trust me, had IV narcotics while in hospital or oral take-homes been available, I would have for sure opted for them in those days pre and post surgery were the pain alone I thought would kill me. Sighhhh…and as to the PTSD, yep, totally get it. That one sticks. Oddly enough, when I took my daughter into the ER for a twisted ankle, they offered her a tylenol/tramadol combo and she is only 15! Definitely pays to do one’s homework and get connected with the best and most reputable physicians, anywhere.
Kind Regards,
Katie
Hi Katie, how are you? I can’t believe I ran across your painful story. But it’s been such a blessing to so many. I have suffered with chronic fibromyalgia, tmj/myofascial pain since I was 13. Then at 35 was diagnosed with M.S… I have so much pain& spasms there was a point in my life I didn’t want to go on anymore. A friend told me about p.m. a doctor which I do see but here in California there taking away 1 of the main medications I need and I don’t know what to do. Somebody told me to go to Tijuana and buy the medication I need. It’s not a narcotic I get those from my p.m but it’s vital to help me live. Before I couldn’t move, eat, talk& lost alot of weight because I have such facial pain& it’s excruciating. The more I read can you tell me of a good P.M doctor in tj. If I go it will be alone. Could you give me some advice I am scare & suffering.
Thank you,
Marie
Hi Marie,
My heart goes out to you that you have suffered in pain for so much of your life. I also have dealt with TMJ issues since my teen years and know firsthand how very difficult it is. I hope and pray that you will find the appropriate relief from the M.S. pain you suffer.
As to physicians in Tijuana, I do not know of any personally. Perhaps getting on some of the Baja FB groups such as On The Road in Mexico or Talk Baja and posting your question(s) will lead you to a doctor that could help you.
Sending my best regards and a big hug,
Katie
Thank you so much for your article and help. Right now during the pandemic, I can’t even get my normal heart medicine, much less any other Rx. It’s been a nightmare. Pain medicine too, I haven’t been able to find any special doctors where I’m at, [CuauhtĂ©moc, Chihuahua]
If you have any special knowledge, please help!
It was bad before this, but now it’s like an awful movie. If anyone has any advice, please pass it on!
Thanks everyone!
Hi Benjo,
I’m so sorry to hear of your troubles.
Our experience in both Puerto Vallarta and San Miguel de Allende is that there is no difficulty in obtaining needed prescriptions.
Best Regards,
Katie
My husband was involved in competitive sports for years. He broke legs, neck, and had 8 back surgeries, etc…….. He is depending on the US system of pain management to maintain a limited but still productive life. Everytime he gets to the point of getting his life totally back he gets purged from his pain doctors role or forced to try a new treatment. The latest a stem implant burned his insides and electrocuted him causing serious permanent damage. He is a glowing example of the perfect long term pain patient with 15 years plus doing everything better than the right way. We are in San Diego and are considering seeking treatment for pain management in Mexico. Is there anything you can recommend for us?
Hi Heidi and Jeff,
I read your story with deep sorrow and understanding for your husband’s and your situation.
I am more than happy to provide you with the contact information of the 3 specialists–all based in QuerĂ©taro–that helped to “put me back together”.
I know my situation was/is unique to me as is your husband’s to him, but one never knows what road will lead to the help so sought, desired and needed.
Please feel free to email me at losogradysinmexico@gmail.com and I will provide you with Dr. Salvador, Dr. Paolo and Dra. Rosario’s information.
Kind Regards,
Katie
Hello Katy,
Thank you for sharing your experience. I sent you an email asking for recommendation.
Thannks.
Umar
You are welcome, Umar.
I hope you find the help you seek.
Warm Regards,
Katie
Hi Katie,
I have several different issues going on with my back from a car accident in my teenage years and with my added weight gain it has gotten worse and I have been working with a dr in the states and he has referred me over to have a surgery on my back which the actual surgeon told me should be my last option because at my age it isnât good to get rods and screws in your back and he still doesnât want to continue to treat me. Anyway, I would love to be able to speak with your dr about my issues and if they take my insurance or how much cost would be out of pocket for an appointment. Thanks.
Hi Ginny,
If you could email me at losogradysinmexico@gmail.com I am happy to provide you with the names and contact information of the neurosurgeon, physical therapist and pain specialist that were part of my team.
Saludos,
Katie
Hi Katie,
I think it’s nice that you would share your experiences to help other people. You are a hero! I’m also looking for effective pain management in Mexico. Could you please send contact info for Dr. Paulo. Thank you so very much!
Brenda
Hi Brenda,
If you would like to email me at losogradysinmexico@gmail.com I would be happy to provide you with Dr. Paulo’s contact info.
Saludos,
Katie đ
Howdy, I am one of the abandoned veterans now ignored by the Veterans Administration. I was on 540mg of oral morphine, needed it, I am now near done on 90mg per day. Irony is the VA totally botched my back surgery, and promised to take care of me. That promise is now broken, my unbearable spine still degenerates. I need to know if Mexican doctors are limited on quantities they can prescribe. Minimum I guess I can get by on is 250-300mg daily, have to try and see. Can you please answer my question, and hopefully steer me towards a rebirth? Thanks, Bruce in Tombstone, AZ. PS, I am a fan of Mexico, The Lovely Wife and I touristed many places over many years. Legal or not, I cannot endure much more.
Hi Bruce,
I am so deeply sorry to hear of your troubles.
Regarding getting adequate treatment (pain management or otherwise) I think it’s really just a matter of vetting a reputable doctor, perhaps close to you on the border, crossing into Mexico, explaining your circumstances and seeing what type of plan he/she can put together with and for you.
My treaters are based in Central Mexico, where I had my spinal surgery and the up-close experience with how to navigate all of the various pieces that go into a major surgery.
If you would like the contact information of the team that helped to put me back together again–neurosurgeon, physical therapist and pain specialist–all based in QuerĂ©taro, you are welcome to email me at losogradysinmexico@gmail.com and I will provide you with each of their contacts.
Best Regards,
Katie
Can you provide me the contact info for Dr. Paulo for pain management? I canât seem to find the info online by searching and his LinkedIn doesnât share it. Thank you!
Melissa,
If you would like to email me at losogradysinmexico@gmail.com I would be happy to provide you his contact.
Saludos,
Katie