Spinal Cord Stimulation for chronic back pain

My first SCS was a Medtronics unit. It worked really well. Nevro and Boston make units as well. I think the key is finding an experienced neurosurgeon with excellent reviews. Placing the electrode paddle in just the right spot is critical. Give a different SCS a trial.

I was happy to hear you say you have 75% pain relief. I has a SCS with Boston Scientific 8 weeks ago. I have found it challenging with the heaviness in my legs and general malaise. In the beginning, did you have these issues? I am just having trouble adjusting. Did you have any of these problems when you were newly adjusting to the device? Thank you for your reply.

I had no issues after the SC implant/ Mine was a Medtronics.

Might be worth another trial. Perhaps a different type of stimulator.

Rchuck - I was diagnosed with chronic L5 nerve damage after L4-5 fusion. Some called it Failed Back Syndrome. I wish I'd never had the surgery. Then I had a Lt. THR, "they" thought that my hip might be contributing to my backpain but like you, it only made things worse. I saw 3 neurosurgeons and they all said surgery wouldn't help my back. But thankfully the last neurosurgeon said I might be a good candidate for SCS, I'd never heard of them. You might do the trial and see if it works for you. That process is so easy, it's almost like getting an epidural injection. I had 75% relief, they only require 50% but I also wasn't doing any major activities. I am a retired ICU RN and believe me, I researched the process and the devices thoroughly, read "current" (lots of outdated info out there) abstracts, etc. and I found this forum, which is fantastic. Please keep us updated. I wish you the best.

judyedd - I just had a Boston Scientific Wave Writer implanted 2 days ago. The trial went great. I'm curious when the discomfort from the implant will go away? I'm small, 5'3" and 107 lbs. It feels like when someone grabs you around the lower ribs trying to startle you but it's constant. I don't take the pain pills often enough. I know I don't because they do work but then I couldn't drive and I want to tomorrow (day 3). I don't like the way they make me feel. Stool softeners aren't helping the constipation either 🙁 . I do take the pain meds at night and I sleep well. Ice works for awhile during the day. Do you remember how long it took to have the constant grabbing go away? Thank you in advance for your insight.

Search for Spinal Cord Stimulator on Mayo. Lots of comments!