tens unit with degenerative spondylolisthesis, will it relieve pain?
I have spndylolisthesis in my neck and in lumbar region (don't know the numbers of the vertebrae), I am in acute pain all the time. I am currently using Duragesic 150 mg patches (Fentynal) for 3 days and for breakthrough pain, Oxycodone 15mg by mouth one every 6 hrs.
I used the tens machine years ago when I had a lower back pain problem, but nothing as severe as this. I was wondering if a tens machine would lower the pain enough so that I could get away from these heavy medications.
I have had this condition for 6 years and my insurance will not pay for surgery, just for more and more meds. My neurosurgeon was so discouraged with the insurance that he more or less decided there was nothing he could do, so let me go. Now my primary care doctor is doing his best, but doesn't really know what to do with me.
I'm just tired of being in so much pain. Can you help with any suggestions? Thank you, Yarnwench
According to the spinal surgeon, below, Tens machines are sometimes used to treat spondylolisthesis.
http://www.spine-surgeon.org/sas.htm
Check out the URL below positive reports from some patients who used them.
http://www.revolutionhealth.com/drugs-treatments/rating/electromedicine-tens-transcutaneous-electrical-nerve-stimulation-for-spondylolysis-and-spondylolisthesis
One the other hand surgery does seem to be the best option - if you can ever get it done. It is the treatment most widely recommended. Several websites mentioned that no studies have examined the efficacy of TENS in your disease. The last URL is from a website from a TENS manufacturer stating TENS can be effective.
http://www.spine-health.com/blog/surgery/back-surgery-best-patients-degenerative-spondylolisthesis
http://www.neurotech.co.uk/baxolve_conditions.php?bmrf=CB_spondylolisthesis
Good luck!
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Hi Yarnwench,
It is difficult and frustrating when the beauracracy of the insurance game gets in the way of you getting the best care for your condition. There is some information on this site that you might find helpful.
First, here is an overview of spondyloisthesis. According to the treatment section in this overview, the surgeries available have some serious rammifications. For instance, complications listed are:
* compression and temporary/permanent damage of spinal nerve roots, which may cause sensation changes, weakness, or paralysis of the legs.
* chronic back pain
This may be some of the reason your insurance is refusing to cover the surgery. There is an interesting video here about how to get the insurance companies to cover anti pain devices. While you are not talking about getting the pump or a neuro stimulator, you might find the advice in this video helpful.
I hope this helps somewhat. Please stay in touch and let us know how you are doing!
Vicki M
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