I have degenerative disc disease, thoracolumbar scoliosis, disc bulges from T11 through L4 with facet hypertrophy. I recently underwent a left sided L5/S1 fusion in May of 2025 because of complete vertebral collapse. I still have a broad based disc bulge and posterior annular tear and right sided severe neural foraminal narrowing at L5/S1 as of an MRI and CT scan of 12/29/25! I also underwent a left SI joint fusion in November of 2025 and need the right SI joint fused. Before these procedures, I went through the injections, ablations, injections again and found no relief. After all of this, I still have nerve pain down my left leg into my feet! I am female and have ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis. I take Enbrel and methotrexate and hydroxychloraquin for these conditions. I have been on opioids since May along with gabapentin and tizanadine. I had to retire because of my inability to be clear headed from the pills and from the chronic pain. The surgeries have provided minimal relief. I am scheduled for a Spect CT and thoracic MRI this week to see if there is another cause for the nerve pain.

All of the above being said, my neurosurgeon has now recommended a Boston Scientific SCS trial. I only sleep about 2-3 hours at a time because I’m unable to lie in bed longer. I can’t sit for very long nor can I stand for very long. I walk with a cane or walker. And, I’m now relegated to needing a motorized cart to go grocery shopping. This is not me! Up until 3 years ago, I walked 3 miles a day, travelled constantly and drove a 2000 Harley Davidson Fatboy!

I am scared of the actual procedure. I am tired of pain and will try it but have seen YouTube videos of people crying out in terrible pain during the procedure. I would love to hear about this aspect of the trial and permanent implant. I am having it done at a surgery center IF the insurance company will approve it. I’m at the beginning of that process. Also, I am 5’0” short and weigh 93 lbs. I’m also concerned about feeling the stimulator / the princess and the pea kind of thing. I would also love to hear about others with the very low body fat problem. Any guidance is appreciated!