I dont test as much on Rosy too

You can check on my Rosy's SS. But when kitties are not stable, like Noni dip at +3, you got to test.
As for the testing. I managed to get a Neosporin from a friend coming back to HK from the States. It does help to numb the pain after the poking. Try to poke around the outer edge of the ear, do alternate ear, warm up the ear before poking helps the blood flow and you dont have to knead or squeeze for blood helps too.
I always apply pressure after the poke. Are you using the lancet or doing it free handed?
Whenever Rosy's in a bounce after hitting low, I do less poking that cycle.