Is it okay to ask for pain meds for torn rotator cuff? putting off surgery for my shoulder till wife finishes her cancer treatment and surgery.

Try to avoid: This is not an uncommon problem for patients( 'putting off' elective surgery so they can care for spouse or other family member)so i understand your situation.If nsaids and or tylenol (acetaminophen) is not easing the discomfort enough( can't sleep , etc.) than a ' milder' pain med like tramodol may be effective. Try to avoid taking stronger pain medication prior to your surgery. Best of luck!

Absolutely!!: No doc should let you suffer if you've already maxed out on Ibuprofen and tylenol (acetaminophen). There are some great compounded pain creams out there. I like bellevue pharmacy in st louis. It works amazing for shoulders and knees--just put it on 3-4 times daily for a week, then you can decrease the amount to your needs. But if you need stronger meds, there is still tramadol, then oxycodone to try. Good luck!