Thank you both for your replies. Im wishing you the best with your trial, Coley.

I talked to both my doctor's office and my rep today about the pain . . . still don't feel like I'm getting a straight answer. The general consensus seems to be that perhaps the lead went a little too far, and then maybe the doc pulled it back, and it caused irritation, leading to inflammation. I'm hearing a lot of "maybe" and "perhaps" - which is frustrating.

Hananabananna - I am so sorry to hear about the problems you have had. The fact that you are on more meds now than before - all because of the SCS - is unbelievable. And scary. Also, you said that the perm implant doesn't give as good of coverage as they trial. That kinda surprises me. All my rep keeps telling me is how much BETTER the perm will be - more consistent coverage, etc. Now, I'm not having laminectomies with mine - just the leads sutured in place - does that make a difference?

I told my doctor's office that I will let them know on Monday whether or not I will have the surgery on Tuesday. The good news is that the pain in my back seems to be a little better today - but not knowing what caused it, if it will happen again with the perm implant, and if it does if it will be permanent or temporary - is making it very hard to make a decision.

I'm just so confused!

Thank you all for your thoughts, comments, prayers, etc. - they are very much appreciated!

=Becky