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HFX/NEVRO Stimulator for Neuropathy
I have had neuropathy for several years as well as back pain (result of back surgery (lumbar laminectomy) and have in the past gotten cortisone shots for the pain. The last time I went to my pain doctor, he recommended that I see a neurosurgeon to discuss a fairly new device specified for neuropathy and back pain.
I visited the neurosurgeon and he told me about the device. It is a spinal simulator with which they have also seen positive results for back pain and also for neuropathy. I agreed to try the device and a test was scheduled to attach a test device externally. I did the test for a week and the results were positive. About 90% of my back pain was gone and my neuropathy, although still there, was better.
Following the test period (one week), the neurosurgeon and I agreed that the device would work on my pain and I was scheduled for surgery to implant the stimulater in my lower back with leads attached to my back (epidural area).
I have had the implanted device for almost 2 months and have been trying (with help from the HFX coordinating team) to find the right setting on the device. I have experienced dome pain relief in my back but little to no relief in my feet. I am still working with the coordinating team to find the best setting.
Sorry this is long but I would like to know if anyone else has had experience with the device.
Thanks for any input!
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Has anyone tried Stonehenge Health Dynamic Nerve supplements for their feet neuropathy?
Two different members mention it in other discussions:
-- https://connect.mayoclinic.org/comment/1137503/
-- https://connect.mayoclinic.org/comment/1253372/
I had my Abbott stimulator removed in February. The hassle of having to go to pain management Doctor every month for changing it . It never helped.
How invasive was the surgery to get the device removed?
I, too have an HFX. I've had it for almost two years. I went through the same process that you describe. At the very beginning it seemed like there was a mild improvement in the neuropathy in my feet. My back problems however, it never did anything for it. At this point in time, I'm not getting any relief from it at all. Unfortunately back injections aren't back on the menu and those don't work either. I hope the system will work for you.
Took about 15 minutes in day surgery. Just a small incision.
the Abbott Burst Stimulator was removed in March 2025 after two years. As my neurosurgeon said "I gave it more than a college try" which made me feel I did give it a full go for the effect.
I was out for 30 minutes. Recovery was nothing, I was back on the tennis court and pickle court the next week.
Has anyone had the HFX Stimulator removed? I know when it was implanted, I had two places where the surgeon cut to install the stimulator. One is the controller and the other was for the leads to my spinal cord.
I have found no relief from the stimulator.
Spinal cord stimulators rarely provide much relief and have more risks than benefits. There are better, non-invasive alternatives. See this article: https://www.paintreatmentdirectory.com/posts/spinal-cord-stimulators-high-risk-low-benefit
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1 ReactionI totally agree. I wish I had known that a year ago.