I appologize for another thread on Spinal Cord Stimulation, but I have some specific questions I hope someone can help me with!
I am 24 years old and 3 years ago was in a car accident in which I suffered multiple injuries including back pain (from facet joints) and nerve damage that left me with a foot drop and severe pain in my right hip and leg. I have tried tons of different therapies including injections, PT, and medications. I have radiofrequency ablation done at 2 levels (L3-4 and L4-5). That is the only thing that has helped my back pain. The first try at it lasted only 4 months, and I am havign it done again this Friday.
The leg pain is another story. There is nothing outside of medication that has helped at all. I am told that it is most likely not going to improve since it has been 3 years and nothing has changed.
I went from a very active college student, preparing for a degree in equine (horse) studies, and a career as a professional equestrian, to working at my dad's company doing outside sales. There I had the flexability to stay at home during the very bad pain days and to go to all the doctor appointments.
My doctors have reccomended a spinal cord stimulator for my leg pain. I have to admit that as scary as it is to think about, the idea of less pain and being ablt to lessen or stop my medication (600mg Lyrica/day, 6-8 ultracets and Oxycontin to be able to get any sleep)is really exciting!
My concerns are that I am only 24! I feel like this is something that older(no offense!) people get and also that I am only 5'2" and 110 lbs. Will the stimulator be able to be seen under my skin, like a lump? and does it feel weird if your pants rub on it? Also, I have some numbness sometimes in parts of my leg and there are so many different types of pain that vary in how bad it hurts throughout the day. Does the stimulatorhelp all the types of pain, or just the sharp pains?
My docors have answered the deep questions, but insight from people who have them would be sssssoooo helpful! Thanks so much!!!