When I got my stimulator... My rsd was only in my right arm and it was after an operation.... I really like mine. It doesnt take ALL the pain away but it takes it away enough because thats where my rsd is worst. (within the last few years my rsd spread to my other arm and legs) I have mine on all the time. I would DEFINATELY go for it. Find an AMAZING surgeon, and ask for references of people in his office that you can talk to about the surgery with him etc. For me, after the surgery for literally 3 months I laid low. Alot of people do more than me, but I DID not want those leads to move and I am very very thankful because I have had no problems with it and it has been about 3 years actually May was 3 years that I have had Abby (my stim us with stims tend to name them LOL) in me. When I had mine, my doctor had me talk to 3 of his patients 1 who didnt like it, and 2 who did to see their experiences. It really helped because you got an insight to that doctor as a surgeon and how he takes care of their patients. The stim is NOT a cure and will NOT take 100% of the pain away... But I have RSD and it makes all the difference in the world. If i have it off I have a hard time sleeping, but with it on it take enough pain away for me to be able to handle. Its definately a great route because it is medication free and with you all the time. The surgery is rough to go through, but the outcome I have had is so great that it was worth all of it. If you have any questions feel free to ask... I know I am kinda all over the board with what I wrote, I kinda wanted to give a little bit of everything. OH, and one thing that made a HUGE difference... before your suregry go to joanns or something and find a soft type of material to cover your neck brace with. It will make all the difference in the worrrrld! The neckbrace is so uncomfortable, but with the soft material it doesnt rub your skin sore or anything!!! Hope I answered a few of your questions! Oh and also, when you have the final surgery, put a pair of pants on and make the incision where the waistband of your underwear and pants dont hit, but you can put them on and hide the incision incase you go to the beach