Bobber,

I had a stimulator installed in 2003 for RSD in my lower left leg and foot – about from the knee down. I understand that it does work better when it is localized like that. The “idea” is that they can target the specific nerve group for that area. The larger the area, the harder it is to “zap.”

Mine worked well for a few years and then stopped being as effective. The manufacturer’s representative said that one lead had stopped working and the other may have slipped a little. A different neurologist had also told me that he thought the installation was not very good. So my advice is: Check references from your doctor. How many has he/she installed? Are there any of his/her patients who may be willing to talk to you? (Confidentiality may be a problem here.) You could also find PTs, OTs, and nurses who know the doctor’s work. I am probably over-reacting on this, but I do believe I would have a better stimulator if the doctor had done a better job putting it in.

There have been huge technological advances since I got mine in 2003. The units are smaller and have better adjustments.

Finally, remember that there are multiple steps in getting a stimulator. First, a block (at least one) to see if targeting a specific nerve area does any good. Than, they do a “trial” stimulator. Only the tips of the leads are put in. Everything else is kept outside and taped or strapped to your body. This is done to see if you get relief. Only after that will you be considered by the doctors and insurance. By that time, you should have a good idea if you really want this.

Do plenty of reading of on the Internet before you proceed – not just here. Do not rush into this. It should be done after a lot of prescription and therapy treatments have been tried. It is a big step.

Good luck to us. Keep us posted.

Mike