Monday, February 13, 2012
In December 2010 my L4, L5 and S1 vertabrae were fused removing pressure on the S1 nerve. I am now faced with damaged nerves causing pain in my buttocks and feet, making it very difficult to sit, stand or walk.
In October 2011 a neurostimulator was implanted in my back to help manage this pain but I am having difficulty achieving the right program to alleviate pain and pain medication. Is there anyone out there who has a similar condition and is willing to share.
To OZ. Yes I also have a neurostimulator implanted in my body. I have permanebt nerve damage to my left siatic nerve. The device does help. I can set mine with 3 different impulses as well as using a remote control to increase stimulation or decrease it whichever I choose. It does help and it helps me me more mobile. I also take pain medication as a suplement to decrease pain. You will have to find that happy medium of stimulation by trial and error and that takes time. Don't give up or become frustrated. It will take a couple of 2-3 months to find your exact setting and then things will level out. YOU will see. I am 62 years of age and I have had mone for 4 years now and I am satisfied with the results. I wished it could be a cure all but it is not. However, I am glad I have it and it does help with my pain and that is Ok by me. Wishing you well and praying for you that it does get better. Best of Luck....sincerely, Poptoy.
Hi Oz,I have a stimulator for over 8 years and it really helps me with my pain.In the beginning I had some problems but met with my Doctor and Rep from the company and they helped me with my settings.I was wondering if you would talk with them maybe they can adjust it where you are getting the stimulation you are looking for.
Mike
Mike, thanks so much for your comment.
My implant was completed on October 27th 2011 just four months ago. Do I have too high of expectations at this point? It is very uncomfortable to sit or stand to do anything.
I have been working with a rep from Boston Scientific since that time and have been dissatified with the programs until I met with the territory manager who was in the operating room during the implant. On Janurary 32st he put in a new program to be used while I sleep to cut down on the pain when I awaken. In the meantime I have been using the other programs from the other rep and I have been miserble uncomfortable. Last night I decided to just try the territory manager's program and I believe I felt a difference and was more comfortable.
My goal is to regain my mobility and comfort level through PT, exercise and this implanted device and am seeing perhaps a little improvement.
I see the territory manager and the pain management doc again on the 28th to make adjustmens in medication and the neurostimulator. Do you take neuropathic pain medication?
Again thanks for Your comment.
Gary
Thanks for your comment too.
I am now a four months and that is why I am frustrated.
In the beginning with your neurostimulator did you see the rep and pain management doctor often. This is important to me because I live 2 and 1/2 hours from this care and have not been in that often due to that reason.
Gary