scallop posted:I have had the same problem for over 20 years and Dr. Shen has not found the reason (nor did Dr. Fazio or Dr. Remzi -- redo was done by Dr. Fazio). I know that one part of the problem is severe muscle tightness. Hard to believe or to identify but I've found that if I have some other reason for burning (e.g. too much bile or yeast) I tighten my muscles (guarding) and this increases the problem. I use a lot of lidocaine -- in particular lidocaine/steroid ointment helps but stretching the muscles and pelvic floor PT helps too. I'll try the vapo-rub -- never occurred to me.
Glad I am not the only one. My sphincter muscles were tested a few years ago with the manometry test and muscles were in normal range. Stretching the muscles sounds scary since I already have very minimal leakage since new pouch 3 1/2 years ago. If I put the tip of my finger inside to apply the vicks , I can feel a spot on left side that is a little sore. It does not feel like a lump or a hard spot, just a little sore there than anywhere else inside. But yes the Vicks gets a very cool menthol feeling at first , but after 5 minutes or so I barely notice that and I do get relief. I know its just masking the pain so have to wait till MRI to see what exactly is going on.