Like you I tried all available processes before turning to a Stimulator. I’m satisfied with the results as I’ve suffered with chronic lumbar pain since having two surgeries in 20. I’ve seen a reduction in my pain level not an elimination of pain. The time between replacements depends on how high you need the power in order to reduce your pain. The bad thing about batteries is that they eventually die and you have to replace them. The good think about new devices is that they are battery driven so you don’t need to recharge daily. The programs also may need to be adjusted as your back changes over time - for instance, as you age. Your rep will work with you to set up several programs which you can test to see which, if any, give you the relief you seek. You have the leads implanted but you wear the actual device outside of your body for a few days to see if it is helpful in reducing your pain level. When you first decide to have it, you can take it for a “test run”. Unfortunately the original company who developed my first stimulator, Nuvectra, went out of business. I had my first spinal cord stimulator implanted 5 years ago. It is not a cure-all, one must work with the body to truly stay pain-free. SCS is only the beginning of being pain-free. I feel so much better in getting off these drugs. I have not had any Oxy since the implant week, and have been able to stop Gabapentin, Omepresole, and others. I have recently obtained a private Pilates instructor to teach me how to strengthen my core. I have been told that I can swing a driver after 4 more weeks. I must use it or lose my ability to move. I have learned that I have to stay active and focus on massages, stretching, and manipulation of the back, buttocks, and leg muscles. Before the implant, I had 4 months of participating in structured physical training, which has given me the proper way to exercise my back, so it can stay someone supple. Additionally, I have rheumatoid and osteoporosis which also complicates my body. My injuries came from two significant falls. I now have permission to use my balls and rollers and it makes such a difference in removing the spasm knots that persist at the shoulder blades and down the spine and actually relieve the muscle pain. Then, for the next 6 weeks, I could not use my exercise balls and rollers, making my back even more spasmed. Of course during the implant process, one cannot twist, bend or turn during the first 4 weeks. Yes, I have tight muscles, especially down my para-spinal muscles. I have a 17-inch titanium rod in my back from T-4 to S-1 with 4 new discs and a fully fused pelvis. Hello, I am 75 and in my 12th week of Boston Scientific Spinal Cord Stimulator and as I write this I am in no pain. People think Boston Scientific is a bad SCS because of a law suit, if they read further they'd learn it was over a design patent and another over a vena cava filter, not their SCS. If you read a surgery consent, you may never have another surgery. If you read drug inserts, you may never take another prescription medication. Also my three friends are very happy with theirs. I too am a retired RN and have done my research. I am grateful for modern medicine and the chance to get part of it back. I ran out of options and the pain is ruining my life. I was told by 3 neurosurgeons they couldn't help me but at least the third one recommended I try the SCS. I was also told I should be able to quit pain pills and the 1800 mg of Gabapentin I take. I have been told the permanent works even better. I think that is where you got the 50% relief from, the required trial minimum. I got 50% and sometimes more pain relief during my trail. It is the trial that requires 50% pain relief or you won't qualify for permanent placement.
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