Has anyone tried a spinal cord stimulator for small fiber neuropathy?
Hi, I’ve had burning and pins and needles in both of my feet for over three years now. I’ve seen 3 podiatrists, 2 neurologists, back and foot surgeons and physical therapist, acupuncturist, and pain doctors. I’ve had two nerve conduction studies. The first one said tarsal tunnel and second said it’s not tarsal tunnel, maybe idiopathic small fiber neuropathy. They have done X-rays, an MRI, steroid injections, and I paid out of pocket for 10 acupuncture sessions. I’ve tried gabapentin numerous times, Lyrica, Cymbalta, numerous topicals, amatripline, nortriptiline, lamotrigine and tramadol. Some meds raised my resting heart rate and the others didn’t help. My last doctor visit was vascular who suggested a CT scan to be sure it wasn’t a vascular issue, the test did not show anything that was related to my feet issue.
Several have said most likely idiopathic small fiber neuropathy. My primary says I’m prediabetic, with my A1C being 5.6. So she has me on metforman 500 mg/day.
My pain clinic doctor has suggested a spinal cord stimulator. They do a trial for 5-7 days before implanting something permanent.
Has anyone had this done? Does it work? Any insight you’re willing to share is appreciated. Thanks.
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Hi! I think it all depends on which unit you have. I have an Abbott spinal stimulator. I wish it worked better than what it does. Do you know what unit you are thinking about getting? Best of luck!
FYI...I'd think twice about getting a spinal cord stimulator. I had one put in three years ago for low back pain. At first it helped. But now I can literally turn it off for a few days and I can't tell any difference. I've read now that the nerves get used to it and that's why it doesn't work anymore. Either way, I wish I'd never done it. And I wonder if the doctor knew better and just did it to make a buck. So sad we have to think this way, huh?