Eli, my reps were "concerned" initially, and I was constantly having to be re-programmed. They kept saying to give it time, let the swelling decrease, blah blah blah. I had a rep set it on a very funky setting, and he said to try that one. I didn't even make it out to the car before it started cross-feeding, and almost caused me to fall. We called him before we left the building from the car, and left a message. I haven't heard from him (or any of the other reps) since that message I left.

I have received calls from the MedTronic Office asking me to do a survey. I told her that she wouldn't like my answers, nor would they share my answers with other patients.

I honestly think that the PM doctors push this device because of the expense of the equipment and surgery. It seems like everyone has to go through that second surgery to have the leads surgically placed or something has gone wrong with the battery/generator. I am a bit angry at my doctors right now, because of the botched surgeries. I am pleased with my accupunture/pain doctor as she prescribed an H-Wave which is similiar to a TENS unit, but has a few more features. This works just like the Stim does, but is all external. I can place the sensation where I want/need it and it is very easy to use. The only problems I see with it is that it is a bit bulky. This means I have to spend about 1 1/2 hours plugged in twice a day. Also, the battery needs to be charged a bit more often, and it be used while charging. I can deal with these "problems" a lot more then I can deal with the 6" steel spike (the silicone paddle) and the wires and battery. If only I had been given this option, or performed better research prior to taking my doctors' recommendations.

Good luck with yours, and don't forget - it is your body and if you want it out, get it out. I truly believe mine increased my pain and problems. Hopefully once it's removed, I will have relief (or at least go back to the way I was before it was implanted).