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HFX/NEVRO
I have had neuropathy for several years as well as back pain (result of back surgery (lumbar laminectomy) and have in the past gotten cortisone shots for the pain. The last time I went to my pain doctor, he recommended that I see a neurosurgeon to discuss a fairly new device specified for neuropathy and back pain.
I visited the neurosurgeon and he told me about the device. It is a spinal simulator with which they have also seen positive results for back pain and also for neuropathy. I agreed to try the device and a test was scheduled to attach a test device externally. I did the test for a week and the results were positive. About 90% of my back pain was gone and my neuropathy, although still there, was better.
Following the test period (one week), the neurosurgeon and I agreed that the device would work on my pain and I was scheduled for surgery to implant the stimulater in my lower back with leads attached to my back (epidural area).
I have had the implanted device for almost 2 months and have been trying (with help from the HFX coordinating team) to find the right setting on the device. I have experienced dome pain relief in my back but little to no relief in my feet. I am still working with the coordinating team to find the best setting.
Sorry this is long but I would like to know if anyone else has had experience with the device.
Thanks for any input!
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I certainly would go ahead with the test but be VERY AWARE of any relief that you get during the test. I have had the nevro/HFX device implanted in my back for several months and have yet to get any relief in my back or my feet. I had a lumbar laminectomy in 1999 and have also been dealing with neuropathy in both feet for several years. I went to a pain management specialist and he recommended the device. I continue to work with the nevro coach but still don’t get any relief in my back or my feet. I am really disappointed with the device and will probably be talk to the surgeon to see about getting the device removed.
One word of caution. If you are currently using a stimulator (tens like unit) on your feet, it will NOT WORK with the nevro unit.
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1 ReactionThank you so very much. If it does not work, I will look into laminectomy. Standing and walking aggrevate the back discomfort going into the buttocks and the neuropathy in my feet to such a degree it effects balance. Stretching excercize helps temperarily.
see if you can view my feb reply. I'm 86 y.o. and my symptoms sound like you might be my brother. Both back and feet wise. It did take me quite a while to get it "dialed in" buT it has reduced my pain considerably. If I don't charge the battery, as one MUST do, I feel its effects with increased pain, so I do know it works. I would encourage you to do it and hope you get a COACH, as Nevro likes to call the techs, who is skilled and dedicated.
I have a Boston Scientific stimulator implant for 3 yrs. Started having neuropathy problems in 2020. Stimulator is aimed to my feet only. I would say that it takes care of about 20% of foot pain. I am also on oxycodone and gabapentin which takes care of approximately 20% more of the pain. I work with BC about 2 or 3 times a year for adjustment. Either face to face or over the phone. I have been thinking about getting 2 more implants. One on each leg to aim at my feet and have the current one aimed at my back. I also have lower back pain (arthritis) and sciatica. I have tried and am willing to try almost anything for the pain. If anyone has tried the leg implants I would to hear from them. I am also posting this as a starting point post. Thanks to all and good luck to all.