Hello, I am new to this forum as well. I am sorry for the pain that you are experiencing, I have widespread pain as well, but have Causalgia in both lower extremities. I did interview last year for the spinal cord stimulator, I did some research, if your problem is in your back it does show some promise. What they explained to me was that it shuts off the pain literally by using electronic impulses. If you have ever used the TENS unit, it does about the same thing except it focuses on the area that it is applied. I chose not to have it due to the fact that I have major trauma in both of my feet and it did not treat that pain, which meant that I would still have to take pain meds. There is a trial session, I do know that. I would recommend the trial, it is only for 3 to 5 days and there is nothing permanent it will just give you an idea.

Weighing out the pros and cons on something you know absolutely nothing about is stressful, I have learned to meditate and ask my body, mind and spirit to move me in the right direction. It is all trial and error, but it is your body and your choice. God Bless

Hi Wilbyfree -

The problem originates in the lower back that radiates down both legs. I have used the tens unit. I had pretty good results (it took the edge off enough were I could at least function) as long as it was on. The problem was I couldn't have it on 24/7 and as soon as I turned it off, the pain came rushing back and at times the pain seemed even worse after I had used it. It was like my body was saying....."I hoped you liked that little bit of relief because you will pay for it now!!!" I also did the trial and that seemed to help as well. It radiated that "tingling" feeling from my ribs all the way down to the bottoms of my feet. However, it was only in a few days so I wasn't sure at the time how much it was helping because I had a lot of pain in the incision area. However as soon as it came out, I could totally tell that it worked because a lot more pain came rushing back again. I know that this is not a "cure" but if I can get some type of relief, I will be a happy camper!!! As my son and husband will be, too!!!

Thanks for your thoughts!

I totally hear you on the relief, and lets face it when we are in such desperate pain we will try anything. It sounds as though you did have a good response to the trial, that is promising. Trying to managa this pain and family has been one of my greatest challenges. I hide, literally on severe days, just so I don't snap at them. I remind myself that they could not possibly understand. It is all just overwhelming at times. God Bless you and your family, I wish you all the best.