I used to have a Novara Safari with trekking handlebars, which will readily accept mtb shifters and levers. Later I installed those same bars on my Jamis Renegade, along with changing the drive train to 2x11 mtb gearing using SRAM shifters. I absolutely love it. The trekking handlebars are so comfortable that it's worth changing whatever it takes to reach a working solution. I have the same set up on my folding bike. I hope you can solve your pain problem.