Hello AZ-Di,

I just read in another thread that you have already finished your trial.. wow that was quick; didn't you just get it on the 8th? How did it work out for you?

Wanted to let you know that I just got my permanent implant (Medtronic Adaptive Stim) on the same day you started your trial. I am extremely happy with it so far! On day 2 - I went out on two therapy walks, both were just barely under a mile long. Day three the first outing was 1 mile and the second was just over 2 miles with a smile from ear to ear.. I am one happy girl! I noticed that after my first day of walking this really improved the surgical pain I was feeling from the implant, both in spine and where the battery sits in my buttock.. thankfully. The permanent offers many more settings for both the intensity of the stim and the pulse sensation which makes it easier to find a program that works for different activities. The recovery so far has not been bad at all - Yes, it is painful but surgical pain not CRPS pain and so much more tolerable. I have been able to sleep laying on both sides and on my back without any more pain than the initial discomfort of trying to get situated with and injury. Though I was awake for the surgery itself, I have no recollection of it.

One tip for anyone contemplating SCS that has a small frame please take the time to discuss and really think about where the battery (IPG) will be placed. I am 5'6" at 116# so I was concerned that it may protrude. Before CRPS II, I was an avid snow skier, mountain climber etc., and often wore a backpack to carry extra gear, tools etc., Because I am trying to stay positive despite this horrid disease, in my mind the point of the SCS is so that I can enjoy at least some of those activities again someday, even if at a slower pace or easier route. So.. when I arrived for surgery I had my favorite backpack in hand so that my surgeon could make sure that where he placed the battery (IPG) that my backpack would not rub on it if it protruded even a little. He laughed and said "this was a first - keep that attitude and CRPS won't beat you". He encouraged me to stay positive and do my best to find ways to enjoy the activities I love. I am super glad I took the time to think and plan for my future (thanks to the many folks who posted experiences on this forum) because it does appear that even when the swelling goes down most of my components will protrude some.

Regarding spread - I have not experienced spread from the SCS implant. My previous experience with spread after surgery was that it was obvious within 12-24 hours that it had spread. This may be different for everyone but, at least for me, given I am entering day 4 without signs of spread, I am hopeful and positive that this did not occur with this surgery. YIPPEE YAHOO.

Wishing you a speedy recovery and clarity with your decisions going forward,
Tessa