Yes, we have pain receptors in our backs and a hypnotic drug like Ambien affects those receptors. We call it "rebound pain". It gets intense at first, and with time (I know, there's that dang word!) it will settle down and get better. You're doing great! I know 2 family members on Ambien and they have been on it for YEARS!! So glad you are getting off of it. It's a difficult feat, but you will be so proud of yourself when you look back on this time.
P.S. If you want to read about the rebound pain, the Wikipedia explanation of "opiate induced hyperalgesia" will help explain it. I realize Ambien isn't an opiate, but the nervous system and pain receptors are still affected by all those meds classified as a "hypnotic or sedative".
Is it normal to have backaches during recovery? My lower back is sore.
We are glad you found us and could help. Today is a new day!! Oh and we are all a little nuts around here!! lol
Wow - on day 18. Better so far, but yesterday was one of my worst. At work and couldn't accomplish anything. Searched and found an empty office and laid on the floor in the dark on and off - wow is all I can say. Couldn't eat anything. It is so weird, but Monday and Tuesday were h3ll but around 6 pm each night, it just tapers away and I can get a little food in me and by bedtime, I feel great. Today, I woke up nauseous but forced food down and it feels like it will be a better one. I also have found that getting up from my desk and going outside periodically to walk a bit helps. I should have called in sick yesterday, I was useless. It is hard to focus at work some days, but I get there. Who knew coming off of Ambien would be so hard. Never had to come off pain meds, but if it is worse than this, my heart goes out to all of you! I am now on a nautical sleep aid (melatonin) and it seems to work pretty well. Should have tried that first :). Thanks everyone out there giving advice. I don't think you realize how helpful it is when it feels like you are nuts.
You are doing great so keep it going. This is normal so you are NOT nuts! This part is only temporary. Keep yourself busy today. Tomorrow will be a better day~
Totally normal ... that's the drill for Benzo w/d. So sorry you I going thru this ... I know s*cks is not intense enough to describe how awful it is. It *will* get better gradually. You are doing great!