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Anyone tried Spinal Cord Stimulation for Chronic Pain?

Neuropathy | Last Active: Jan 31 9:35pm | Replies (410)

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@dek68

I had shingles two years ago and have PHN as well. I have yet to find any treatment for the pain and intense itching. I was referred to a pain management doctor who tried injections (of no help) who has suggested the SCS. He did not mention the DRG you have, and you mentioned results that are "ok at best". Would you mind sharing more details of your experience with PHN and what, if anything has helped your symptoms? The usual list of medications (Gabapentin, Tramadol, etc.), along with every type of topical cream I can get my hands on has done nothing to bring relief. Thankfully it is not constant, but anything touching the skin does irritate and can kick off the pain and itching.
I am researching the pros and cons of SCS and so far, I am having a hard time convincing myself it would be worth the possible risks for some "possible" benefits.
Best Regards! Donna

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Replies to "I had shingles two years ago and have PHN as well. I have yet to find..."

Contact Abbott directly and they can send you to a local rep. The rep can provide names of doctors in your area that can do the procedure. There is a trial that is done, where there is only a couple days where you can assess a difference (dependent on post op pain, and PHN pain location. Some changes in pain can occur months later. The DRG is definitely better than the SCS because the specific nerve that is impacted will get the interfering signal. The lead (up to 4) is placed at the dorsal root (base of the nerve where it exits the spine). My pain mgt doctor (Lubenow at rush in chicago) told me that PHN patients are the hardest to treat. So I want to be honest but I don't want to discourage. Specifically for me, my phn caused pain in butt, rear of thighs, inside thighs, groin, all on both sides. 4 different locations, at least 3 pairs of nerve groups. It did eliminate most of the groin pain (after 2 months) and some of the butt/thigh pain, but not enough to get off the meds. if you have any other questions, feel free to ask. I would suggest trying it, since you have done all the other "goto" treatments. Medical cannabis (indica strain) is also a "tool". Not sure if you tried it. I also take tramadol, pregabalin, baclofen. 5 years now...and counting. please don't hesitate to ask any other questions. There is also a "DRG" facebook group if you want other opinions. I'm on it, but I can probably answer any questions you have. Its good if you want opinions other than me.