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HFX/NEVRO Stimulator for Neuropathy
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.
I am considering getting the Neuro HFX and I would like to know if anyone can tell me if it work's on the numbness and tingling. I'm currently going to a pain clinic and the meds aren't controlling my pain. Any information would be appreciated.
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1 ReactionHello @alabamasweetie336,
I combined your discussion with an existing discussion titled:
"HFX/NEVRO Stimulator for Neuropathy"
- https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/hfxnevro/
@jrn57, @trustin356, @besmith57, @gstahl and @imalawyer2 all posted in this discussion about their interest in trying the stimulator or having first-hand experience with a stimulator.
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1 ReactionI am now to the place where I am considering having the Stimulator removed from my back. It is BARELY helping my back and has given me VERY LITTLE relief for my Neuropathy.
Anyone have any experience getting the device removed?
I wasn't a candidate for the Nevro. I tried a different one and had it removed after 5 weeks because it didn't help. Good luck!
I had my NevroHFX spinal cord stimulator implanted (following a week’s trial with an external one first) New Year’s Eve 2024. I decided on the iQ app version instead of a manual control. I began with program 1, and am now on program 10, level 12. Confused yet ? lol
I do daily assessment on how I am responding via Bluetooth within my phone app. Every 3 months I have an in office check with the NEVRO rep and pain specialist. YES the numbness and burning pins and needles feeling in my front thigh has greatly diminished . You have to work with the program until you find your sweet spot. But… my leg weakness will always be there if I overdue.
Great program and care.
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1 ReactionMy surgeon and care team did not give me the option of using the iQ version so I am stuck with the remote. Also, I had the implant last August and have been back to see a care team member one time. Have not had an appointment scheduled with the pain doctor. I have to call the care team to get any assistance with the settings.
I did find a program that seems to work during the day but I have to turn it off at night because the regular daytime setting has an actual stimulation which acts like a “ heavy duty tens unit”.
I am currently waiting on a call back from the care team to see if they can help me with one of the settings.