Hi Krank,
To my original post, I forgot to mention that what I like to do (hiking..exploring beaches, walking through the redwood trees) is what I like to do if I could!! Those are the things I USED to love to do..
I hope one day in the near future we'll all be able to do the things we use to do!!
Hope4thebest xox

Hello Krank and welcome to NT.
I have full body RSD and I had a Boston Scientific SCS for about 2 years. I had it removed last November it wasn't helping. They are very posture sensative. When I turned my head it turned up the stimulation when I sat down it turn off the stimulation. Boston Scientific tried to get it adjusted properly but they were unable. Medtronics makes one.

I see an RSD specialist in Philly he told me I shouldn't have done the SCS to begin with. In his opinion they don't help RSD and it didn't help me.

I see a chiropractor and that really helps as does exercise in water. We are weighless in water and there is no pain.
I wish you the best of luck and if you want to talk more about the SCS just PM me.
Take care,
Sherrie

First of all I want to thank all of you. Its great to know that I have found a place where there are so many caring people that know exactly what I am going through. With all the advice and wisdom I have received I am going to find a second opinion. If anyone knows of a great pain management Dr. or a great neurologist in the minnesota or north dakota area we would deeply appreciate any names or suggestions. I am not ruling out finding the best combinations of medications. Trying hbot and anything else that is relatively noninvasive first. I'm not quite sure about a second round of epidurals. I figure if they really didn't work the first time ( with one of them being totally botched) I believe I learned my lesson there. We heard of a ketamine treatment but we are not sure what that involves. I am interested in the hydrotherapy and any personal stories on how anyone got into remission. I am blessed that I was diagnosed as quickly as I did and that the little demon is confined to my right leg. I cant even imagine what it would be like to have this through out my body. My wife and I will be praying for you all. Bless you all sincerely krank

I will try to keep this short. You have had a lot of great responses.

As an RSD sufferer with an SCS, my mantra to others has been: exhaust other treatment options first.

Implanting the Spinal Cord Stimulator is surgery. There are all of the normal potential complications of any surgery, there is a recovery and rehab time, and when all is said and done, it is in there permanently. There are some changes and restrictions to your life with the SCS implanted.

This is a big step. Many have had great results, and some others regret ever doing it. Do not rush in. Take plenty of time to research this. If you look in this site alone, there have been LOTS of discussion threads on this subject - pro and con.

Welcome to our group. Good luck in your fight!

Mike

geez, u have been given lots of advice! i broke my left wrist in april 08 & came out of cast w/RSD! has spread up my left arm & shoulder.... having symptoms in my left foot/ankle. walkin' w/cane so i won't fall. also have epilepsy & take heavy meds 4 that! for RSD i'm taking 1800 mg Neurontin & Ativan 4 anxiety. have refused blocks, implants, etc. won't go there until absolutely necess. my fall was at work - so i'm on W.C. haven't wked in 17 mos. i often have "flare ups" because of W.C.! they pay 4 all meds; my PM dr once/mo.; psychologist once/wk; & OT twice/wk. ..... & my salary! i'm blessed in many ways. have seen my attorney - and if we don't "settle", all my medical bills will b pd. 4 life! all i can tell u is b sure u have a group of good drs treating u - drs that know RSD. And know that God has a special plan 4 u...... welcome 2 the greatest forum ever!