Spinal Cord Stimulator Placement

[@charlottekostelic1522]

Had one installed in November of last year. I was dealing with Sciatica, Spinal Stenosis and throw in some arthritis. I'm 74 but in good health. Surgery was not an option. I felt exactly like you said. For almost 2 years I went from a cane to a walker. I couldn't drive. I withdrew from friends and invitations and shed many a tear. I'm driving again, shopping and meeting friends. My pain level went from a 8 to a 2 and some times 3. Thanks to Abbott and my surgeon. I'll be forever grateful. Thank you. Charlie K Oregon

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

That's great news, glad to hear you are doing better

[@Mn2011-u2p]

Was your surgery really painful?

[@nansie7697]

❤ your comment helped me alot to decide on trying it. My spondylothesis so bad bedridden 5 months. Age 68

[@francesdavis1097]

I just finished the trial, and I'm waiting for the permanent one. I've been dealing with sciatica and neuropathy for years . And I'm looking forward to having this done

[@gaylelizabeth]

This is still what I’m hoping for I have intractable pain having contracted sepsis and losing most of my colon, lastly my rectum which is where most of the problem lay … very unique and complicated case , my CPP subscribe to this technologies I am scheduled and dorsal trial back to this coming Saturday- my pain level are constantly at a minimum of eight even with double opioid medication.. I not away. I am looking forward to a reduction. I am also looking forward to a huge if not complete removal of opioid medication from my body.!

[@a.life.reimagined]

I was asleep for the procedure and we adjusted it over a few days. I haven't gotten the permanent yet, but the trial was so nice. I can't wait to get the permanent installed. 😮

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

That's great to hear, thanks for sharing

[@levanhunts]

I got my lumbar spinal stimulator in 2019 and at first I wasn’t too pleased with it. Over time, the software has been upgraded and it seems to be much better. I am going to be getting another stimulator soon (probably scheduling the trial with Dr. Joyal tomorrow) this time for my cervical spine. Pretty soon I’ll be the bionic woman.😂 Although, Dr. Edwards….if you happen to invent my spinal transplant before Dr. Joyal does, I’ll be coming to see you as soon as you let me know!😉😁💜

[@laneicewatson3196]

JJulia and the kids Mary Julia door go car health care

[@jeanettawilliams]

I got my Nervo spinal cord stimulator implant it is soooo good.Thank the Lord and Elite pain clinic in Mason Ohio on Snider road

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

Glad to hear it is helping. Thanks for sharing.

[@nansie7697]

❤ thank you. You explained clear and slow so I understood you. I see at my Dr."s office a smaller device available. Pain for 15 years. Lumbar spondylothesis.

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

Thanks for watching and we appreciate your feedback

[@power-through-faith]

I suffered in severe pain and I have a Abbot Eterna and I'm doing great..Still some pain but it's tolerable

[@samanthabarker2502]

So I have had 2 cervical fusions (C3-6) and a lumbar fusion (L4-S1). I am DONE with surgery. The cervical trial was FANTASTIC! Unfortunately, they couldn't get the leads as high as they wanted, but it still provided INCREDIBLE relief! However, my pain dr feels better having a neurosurgeon install the permanent one. I have an EXTENSIVE cancer history. He will attempt the MRI compatible device, but might have to implant the other if he believes the leads will migrate and cause further surgical issues. I agreed, but worry about this. So questions: 1. How long was recovery time? 2. I have a Belgian Mallinois. He is VERY active, and I usually exercise him 3 hours/day. Don't ask how; it's all I do and broken up into small pieces. However, is 3-4 days of boarding sufficient? 3. Has the inability to access MRIs been an issue? 4. What other info should i be aware of? I have had 40 surgeries due to cancers and spinal issues, but I still don't like walking into situations where i don't know all the info. Your experiences and advice are greatly appreciated!

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

Thank you for your comment. Recovery after permanent implant is a little more than for a trial, but generally only a couple weeks. Any specific limitations should be discussed with your treating provider. MRI compatibility is less of a problem with the newer devices, but there are a few instances when the equipment is not compatible. It sounds like you've done great with your research and I hope things go well for you.

[@TraditionalCatholic2633]

Those are AMAZING dogs. The military uses them A LOT. I have a Great Pyrenees (spelling?h and Anatolian Shepherd and she is just massive and an amazing dog! Praying for you and your health!! ❤

[@conniehoschar]

I really want this for my back pain, nothing else is working, but, Is my Zarelto I take alright for this. I have had many procedures and I just quit taking Zarelto for few days. Please answer ASAP Connie Hoschar

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

Great question. You should always consult with your treating provider for specific recommendation, but it is common to stop any anticoagulation medication like Zarelto prior to any surgical intervention.

[@ArdiaNeves]

I have scoliosis and osteoporosis, and I have a Minute Man spacer, with bone fused around it. Will the spacer complicate or interfere with either the implant or, if the implant does not work, major surgery later, to correct the scoliosis. I am currently very active.

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

Thank you for your comment. Each case should be considered on it's own. It would be best to have a formal evaluation to answer these questions.

[@dawnnakamura3921]

im having the iimplant put in April 13th and i did the trial over a year ago. can i stil have massage therapy after i have the implant put in?

[@JenniferKraft]

yes you can still get massage I get it all the time but let the massage therapist where the stimulator and battery is located

[@doo6211]

Have you ever put two stimulators in? I have one in now for my neck and head and my doctor wants to put another one in for my lower back and hip 😖

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

Yes, it is possible to have leads in the cervical and lumbar spine.

[@dorothyAW]

I have been told because I have a total spinal fusion that they would not be able to do the trial so I would have to go right into actual surgery not knowing if it would help me or not because my hardware is in the way although nobody has seen me. A doctor at the Pain clinic just said that. I wish I could put pictures on here, but I'm sure you know what it looks like when you're fused from head to hips. I am in so much agony every day I can't enjoy anything.

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

I'm sorry to hear that, but thank you for sharing your story. I hope you can find the relief you are looking for.

[@LeRoyWalters-wl3tj]

I have been to a neurosurgeon that suggested an L2 - S1 laminectomy. I have all the good stuff going on, foraminal narrowing, degenerative disc disease, synovial syst ect. I'm looking for some pain relief besides the surgery and pain pills.

[@doraliseperalta1373]

Yo tuve el segundo estimulador el 28 de marzo. Nunca es tenido mejoría ahora me lo apagaron porque me lo van a sacar no puedo casi ni caminar estoy peor que antes de ponérmelos son unos dolores muy muy fuertes de la cintura asia bajo todos me duele y peor no puedo casi caminar estoy sufriendo mucho. Y es muchos dolor. Hay que orientarse muy bien antes porque no es como dicen yo nunca es tenido mejoría es peor cada días.

[@garybolick3320]

What happens if the device requires to be removed in the future? Is that again an invasive process that is possible?

[@sambow4u]

I can tell you from Experience,,, That they can be removed ,,, It's just another incision in the same spot ,, The actual Stimulator comes right out and the wires are pulled out without and pain ! At least thats my experience !

[@carolynarnott5002]

I’m due to have my 2nd battery done first one last just over 5 years second one just over 8years there going to be doing wire replacement this time as well only one wire out of four wire leads is working is there any risk getting this done if anyone has had this done it’s been inserted because of rectal problems for a terrible birth

[@jodiejones5681]

hi my partner is due to have the trial for this soon hes worried sick as hes read various articles some good some bad whay is your honest opinion on these devices can you bath n shower with them what about sleep as he sleep both sides. best wishes

[@carolynarnott5002]

@@jodiejones5681 if it’s the same type of trial I done it’s out side of your body but the wires are still put in you the wire is secured by some tape you can shower but you have to be careful not to tug on the wire you can pull it out I slept ok it was for two weeks

[@CrazyMaryJo]

@@jodiejones5681best to acclimate to sleeping on one side only. Found “pregnancy pillow” a very good discipline aid. Still use it !

[@DanRussell-q8s]

My Dr. anchored both leads so that migration was impossible and losing a little spinal fluid during the implantation is normal and only noticed by it causing a headache for a couple of days that could be lessoned by taking a couple of Tylenol .

[@know.58]

Mine was in place and in recovery a person used iPad and ask if I was feeling it.

[@stanleyturner7237]

I am 71 years old I went and tried to spinal cord stimulator trial everything went well the reason I wanted to try it is I was losing my balance I was walking with a walker I have diabetes and high blood pressure that all is leveled out today is Thanksgiving I had the permanent one put in the Monday before Thanksgiving I asked them if it would help with the neuropathy the tingling in my feet and it did I am glad that I got it I am still using a walker but I think my balance is coming back I hope anybody that has the tingling of neuropathy in your feet it will help you I was very skeptical at first about the stimulator but I'm glad that I do have it I hope this information will help someone else out

[@stanleyturner7237]

I had mine done at The spine center in Hagerstown Maryland

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

I appreciate you sharing your experience. Glad it's going well

[@rachelscott5412]

I have a spinal cord stimulator and had it implemented last year on May 5th of 2021 and then had to have a revision done on November 30th of last year as well.

[@dakshpatel6278]

Hi

[@dakshpatel6278]

I am payal from gujrat rajkot,i have suffering low back pain last 3year please help me scs is help full pain?

[@rosettaknight6653]

Did it help your pain

[@bernardneary7238]

John ?for you have Nervous spinal cord stimlutar now26 july ?can i haveEMI scan

[@maxbeanter]

I am 84 years old, have 3 bars in the right side just above my hip, also have a right hip replacement. Will this interfere with spinal stimulator operation?.

[@laurasantos7475]

Be careful. I got a spinal fluid infection when my temporary scs was removed. Almost killed me

[@AE.963]

I'm glad your okay, much love from me to you

[@AE.963]

@@SkyNetGeneral- I love you and hope that you get to have the best life :-)

[@JohnHilman1968]

@@SkyNetGeneral-I'm at that point now too with my chronic pain. Every night I'm praying for permanent pain relief whatever that looks like is ok. Including death. No I'm not suicidal. Big difference between wanting to die and wanting to kill yourself. In 2012 I had a brain bleed and had a nde. I'm no longer afraid of death. It was honestly the most peaceful experience I have ever had. And Jesus is real.

[@rosettaknight6653]

Omg you making me scared

[@MeaThreattoDemocracy]

What could go wrong? Why would anyone do this if opioids are controlling their pain?

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

That is a great question. Every patient case is different and should be considered as such. There will be pro's and con's to any treatment option and should be discussed directly with the treating provider.

[@TraditionalCatholic2633]

I would NEVER in my life trust anything like this. My luck it would electrocute me or something crazy. 😝 I just had a 2 level ACDF surgery C2-C3. Made a world of difference. My lower lumbar has 4 herniated discs. Surgeon said he can fix it but I opted not to. My whole spine is degenerated and I have massive pain each and every day but I deal with it the best I can. I was an athlete my whole life. Was on my way to professional soccer. Hard to believe I ended up like this. Oh well 🤷‍♀️ such is life. Mad respect for you guys. I’m sure you help a lot of folks!! ❤

[@DallasOakCliff214]

That’s a risk bc they can become addictive and now you’re a full blown dopefien

[@BigE-qx1jb]

My pain management doctor wants me to try this and thinks I’m a great candidate the only thing is he doesn’t like my career and thinks it would not work because of my job

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

Thank you for your comment. Hopefully you can find an appropriate solution for your situation

[@BigE-qx1jb]

@@summitmedicalinstitute you can’t help me find a solution? Because I would love to hear other ways to stop or help my pain

[@susansaxton835]

What is your job?

[@BigE-qx1jb]

@@susansaxton835 I’m a industrial painter but I just got another job as the same thing but not as physical and my pain management doctor liked that

[@joedyer1785]

Thanks

[@midlifemotox]

They gave me a 2% chance for a fluid leak.. I've had it done twice and both resulted in a leak... 2%? Really? A spinal fluid leak is horrific. And it took them over a week to fix it. (This in no way reflects on this clinic) I am referring to my experience at a pain clinic in California.

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

I'm sorry to hear about your experience. Hopefully you are feeling better.

[@midlifemotox]

@@summitmedicalinstitute Finally found a good Doctor at KECK in Los Angeles. 7 spine surgeries later, I'm almost pain free. Doing amazing. Thanks.

[@rachelscott5412]

I have scoliosis and have had chronic pain for over 15 years now and still have pain every day.

[@brisoulfirst7135]

Do you know where your scoliosis comes from? Sometimes it can be congenital (from birth) and other times it can be caused by having too much flexibility and not enough muscle strength to hold the spine with something like Hypermobility Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.. there is a Beighton Scale that you can speak to your PCP about. I'd suggest pulling the scale up yourself and if you have any points, take a print off into your pcp appointment.

[@michaelbailey7472]

​@@brisoulfirst7135 😅

[@michaelbailey7472]

0P

[@Uneasyriderool]

I'm getting one put in the 9th of December

[@thesaparo123]

I had the permanent installation November 3 2022, IAM telling you that you will never know just how much excruciating daily back pain levels had complete control over you until it's not there anymore, this is what IAM experiencing now.. IAM telling you in advance you will have pain from the surgery if they install paddle lead but but as the days tick off you will get much better. Good luck & enjoy having your life back❤️

[@vrichardson1606]

Did you get your procedure done? I am supposed to get the procedure done as well, but I keep thinking about it. I had back surgery back in May 2021, and I am still in pain. I have been going through some depression due to constantly being in pain. Please let me know how you are feeling.

[@zigzagerman7420]

Let us how you feel after you recover I might need one for cervical neck

[@tinaadams8129]

I've had my spinal pain stimulator for 17 yrs but now the leads in my back died. I'm terrified of having the leads replaced because of so much scar tissue. Does anyone have any ideas or help for me?

[@briansnodgrass2895]

Dang. I’m sorry you are experiencing this, but I’m very glad you posted it. I hadn’t given that condition a thought yet. But now I have. I am in line for a trial next month. Would I give up 17 yrs of misery only to have the leads age out & not have the ability to be replaced? 🤷🏼‍♂️ idk.

[@MarkBostic-m4t]

​@Brian Snodgrass Tina Adam's had it done 17 years ago. The FDA approved this procedure on January 26 2023, before that it was still in trail phase. They have improved the technology since then, my trail was great and am doing the permanent SCS this month.

[@jackies56tbird]

My pain management Doc used wires, my neurosurgeon will use a paddle.

[@geraldwilliams1477]

That's that male protein. Just think about it....

[@oldNavyJZ]

Why is the speaker's voice so demasculated? Dude, throw some bass in there.

[@shinasmith7147]

😂😂😂😂

[@sambow4u]

your a perfect example , That You Can't fix Stupid !

[@vrichardson1606]

I don't see anything wrong with his voice. He is speaking clearly so we can understand him and being in the medical field or any professional field doesn't require bass in your voice.

[@ericainncca9771]

Rude much? Your momma not teach you manners?

[@bevandron]

Keeps you off opioids

[@summitmedicalinstitute]

That can be one of the great benefits.