My last pain doc I saw wants to implant a spinal cord stimulator not the tunneled epidural catheter. He feels I need a long term procedure. That all the meds like neurontin don't work and to be on long term meds are not healthy. I asked about the fentnyl patch or more nerve blocks but he said it will just be short term and I need the long benefits of the stimulator. I was doing better still in pain but doing more and even have a short walk. The past few days have been a major relapse in high pain. I'm considering the stimulator just fearful. I'm having the troubles of finding a good pain doc and all the "best" from ucla or cleveland seem not to be so having a big procedure under this treatment adds to the fear. I also don't get if the stimulator can be so helpul why everyone doesn't get it for ex all of you guys who are in pain. Can you give me any ideas? I asked my ?'s from the doc but he made me feel stupid and basically told me not to come back unless it was for the procedure.Then sent me off with the video on the procedure and told me to see a psychiatrist for coping. If I hear that again about coping when I push through the day in a healthy manner with the best outlook I can have I will scream. Anyhow any feedback?

Daniella,
Why don't you post this question on the Spinal Disorders forum here? There are a lot of people who have experience with the stimulator. Good luck,
Billye

I will help you scream over this, Daniella... It is so irritating when doctors or even friends or families say things like this when people are doing the best they can.

Another doctor failing "Bedside Manner 101."

Cathie

Thanks I will check that out and a nice buddy also emailed me a link.As for coping I promised my mom I would find a new psychiatrist. Ugh! I do feel so depressed. I pushed myself to my group today which made me feel worse. I know my mood is cause my pain is back full force and that makes me even more homesick. I feel so trapped in hell. I'll keep you updated.

maybe on the TOS and RSD forum too. i know the question has been brought up before.

daniella, if you use the search feature it brings up the posts about spinal cord stimulator.

Thank you. Yes I did that and am waiting for my confirmation of new forum too. I also sent some email out so I found some support. I know everyone is different just confused on why more people don't get it.Thank you so much