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Implantable neurostimulator for chronic pain
Spine Health | Last Active: Jun 21, 2023 | Replies (334)Comment receiving replies
I have had a Boston Scientific Spinal Cord Stimulator since 2012. Spinal cord injury at work. Complete lower lumbar. (2000) Pain for years.Leg seizing all the time, etc. Dr Abram,Burger / Phoenix, Az. did the operation & I have been doing well until 2018. My fusion collapsed due to degeneration/ age, etc. No one will see me now because I have had 3 Drs. before. Unable to find someone in Florida that will help me. Constant pain now & no longer mobile. Refer from Mayo to Baptist.Due to advanced condition, refused.
Replies to "I have had a Boston Scientific Spinal Cord Stimulator since 2012. Spinal cord injury at work...."
Hello @armsteaddarlene, I would like to add my welcome to Connect along with @jimhd and other members. You mentioned you were referred from Mayo to Baptist (Baptist Medical Center?) but were refused due to advanced condition. Are you currently being treated at Mayo Clinic in Florida?
Are you able to share more about the collapsed fusion and the reason for the referral?
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@armsteaddarlene
Welcome to Mayo Connect. I don't know if you read my experience with a stimulator, so in a brief summary - I had a Burst DR spinal cord stimulator implant in June of 2015, gave me great relief from small fiber peripheral polyneuropathy pain that began in the balls of my feet and is progressing up my legs. It was effective for 2 years, then it became necessary to make adjustments to it every 3 months. After 2 years of that, it had become less and less effective, and now does nothing to relieve the pain. I'm trying to see the neurospecialist to discuss a dorsal root ganglion stimulator implant, but my appointment keeps getting bumped back.
Getting close to the end of my options is discouraging and disappointing. Living with chronic pain for which there seems to be no treatment wears us down, doesn't it. I wonder if AARP might have some resources to advocate for you. Are you wanting to have surgery on your back or a new stimulator?
One of the people in this group is amazing when it comes to finding helpful information is @johnbishop . Perhaps he will have some suggestions.
I'm a couple of months from turning 70, and I've been curious to see if I'm treated any differently at 70. I hope not.
Sorry it took me a couple of days to find your message. I'm really busy these days with my yard work.
I look forward to hearing what happens.
Jim