Yup take pain pill first..LOL, now it didn't hurt my left side but it did hurt my right side, so I guess it depends on how your body can handle pain. To me it was like bee stings or electric shock.

Thanks for the advice about taking pain meds before hand. I will definitely do that.

I agree with the beesting/shock analogy. The procedure is really uncomfy but only for a second or two. The worst part for me was the incredibly hot doctor who was doing it and all I could imagine was my ridiculous face all screwed up by the shocks and i had tears running down my face at one point. It was a but embarassing but worth it to solidify my diagnosis. Hope it goes all right!
Good luck!
~Kathy

YEs yes yes. Between a spinal tap and the RNS, I'd do the RNS over and over again. Lol. One thing I found extremely helpful was to be as relaxed as possible. Cos if the muscles are all tensed up, its gonna hurt a lot more. I've had 5 RNS/EMGs done so far, and 1 spinal tap, and I still do think the former's a thousand times better. Lol.. The pain is bearable, just like having the iv drips' needle inserted. Though at one point my tears just came out on their own and sort of flooded my face.. Embarassing, but still much better than spinal tap.

Hi Shannon,

Take the pills, relax as much as possible and if the tears come let them flow! Holding them back will only make you tense up and don't feel the least bit embarrassed. It will be over quickly, so just hang in there. I'll be keeping good thoughts. Let us know how you make out when you feel up to it. Take care.

Hugs,
Pat