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Anyone with a Medtronic Stimulator that they're not happy with?
Spine Health | Last Active: Oct 16, 2023 | Replies (23)Comment receiving replies
I did research on the different types of SCS and found the Boston Scientific to be the gold standard. Be sure the reviews you read are not written by the manufacturer - there are many out there. My trial dropped my pain level from 8/9 to 5 and the implant should work even better. Mine is relatively new (5.5 weeks) and we are still working on the programs. I was told up front it can take 2-3 months to find the best program. My reps (I have two I can contact) respond to me promptly with all my questions. We can meet in person anytime I request for reprogramming. They want their device to work as much as I do. I am their walking billboard.
Backpain is awful. I have chronic L5 nerve damage (Failed Back Surgery L4-5 fusion) and the pain traveled down my into left thigh - that is now gone. Sitting for over 2 hours is still an issue and we're working on that. I wish you the best.
Replies to "I did research on the different types of SCS and found the Boston Scientific to be..."
I have a Boston Scientific SCS for pain post scoliosis surgery. I’ve had it almost three years. Never once have I gotten any relief from the pain, no matter how many programs adjustments by BS technicians. In fact, I got the feeling after so many attempts, they were really exasperated when I called.
So, as far as BS being the “gold standard” for a SCS, I would not agree, unless, of course, other SCSs are worse.
Thank you Alexis7. The pain management that I use go with the Medtronics.... so I am hoping this give me some relief. I had L5/S1 fusion and everything under the sun to help, with nothing helping. I am personally positive that the pain is coming from my SI-Joint, but no one has a remedy for this. I wanted to come to Mayo, but my insurance will not cover any of it.
A TENS Unit helps some, so I am hoping that the new stimulator will help even better. I am just a little scared to do it..... but living with pain is even scarier.
thank you.
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I had the Medtronics SCS implanted back in 2017, The trial went exceptionally well. It dropped my pain down from a 7-8 to about a 3-4. The permanent implant didn't work quite as well but I still had pain reduction of about 50%. This, along with my meds, made my life much better for about 3 years. I was back to cycling, skiing, hiking, working around the house, etc. Then, in 2021, all the pain returned. I have been in severe pain ever since. Had a pain pump installed in April of this year. Worked well for about a week after several upward adjustments of the meds. Then, once again, the pain returned. Just started with new pain specialist here in Delaware who does the pain pump. I am not really complaining. I see lots of folks on this site whose pain and problems put me to shame. At least I am somewhat functional, even if I can't do a lot of the things I could do three years ago. I count myself blessed. Hope your permanent implant gives you excellent pain mitigation.