Tam,

I've had an SCS for just over ayear now. It's been a Godsend. It doesn't take away all the pain, but at least brings down the pain in the arms so overall my average pain level is 4-5 instead of 7-8. There is a fine line - I still can't do a LOT more, as I can only increase the stimulation so far before it becomes a source of irritation itself. But as long as I behave I am able to be with the family more, feel more like myself than I have in years, and once I manage to get to sleep I can sleep for hours, even REM sleep!

My PM Dr has implanted LOTS of these, and he ONLY uses Advanced Bionics SCS's for the upper limbs. He says they work the best, and they also have the longest battery life - mine is rechargeable and is good for at least 9-10 years but he says with the low power setting I'm at I may get 11-12. I just re-charge every 2 wks or so. But the trial is where you will find out if this will work for you or not. Insurance covered ALL my costs - and my insurance is not the best at covering things if you recall the ketamine deal. But the SCS has been approved for RSD, and it seems to help with the TOS pain too. It keeps my hand warmer as well - the stimulation causes better blood circulation? At any rate, I'm certainly glad I gave it a try. It doesn't work for everyone, but you won't know if it will work for YOU unless you try it yourself, right?

Feel free to PM me anytime with questions!

Hugs and Merry Christmas,
beth