I have an SCS for Chronic Back Pain. I also have nerve damage in both legs as a result of bulging discs. I had a rhizomoty and my NS wants me to get more of these to try and get rid of some of the pain. I recall that it is painful, so I really don't want to go through any more of these. She wants to do fusion surgery after the rhizotomies. I am so unwilling to go through all of that. I will do my best to deal with the chronic back pain. I also have CRPS in my right shoulder as a result of two failed shoulder arthroscopies, one in which they cut out the A/C joint (resection). A rep from Boston Scientific told me at my last re-program of my SCS, that they could attach electrodes externally for my shoulder problem. Only problem is that is a W/C case unlike my back problem, and they don't even want to pay for medications or trigger point injections. Is anyone aware of the external SCS applications? Thanks for any info.

Best Regards,
Dave

Welcome!

I'm sorry you've had to go thru all of this, and the CRPS TOO! That is quite a heavy dose of pain you've been dealt.
How is your SCS treating you?
That's an interesting question regarding the external electrodes. Would this be sorta like a TENS unit that you wear off and on? Work Comp can surely put a wrench in things - like you said, they won't even cover your meds.

Well, I'll refer your inquiry to the wonderful group of SCSers. The active posting is down below. Lots of great support! Hopefully you'll get some good input.

It's great to have you with us. Feel free to stick around and let us know how things go for you.

Caring,
Rae

to the land of external electrodes. I gotta wonder Dave, whether the externalities are suggested for hookup to an internal generator..... or just what is in mind of the rep?

I have used an interferential stimulator which was work comp prescribed and paid relevant to my lower body pain. It worked well, but as an external gizmo, was not robust enough to run longer than twenty minutes without need for a recharge. What a drag. Plus the wires were forever getting hooked on this and hooked on that.

Lastly, I hired a well known work comp lawyer who pushed my case very well until we found resolution with the insurance carrier. I would have sunk without counsel.

I will keep my eyes and ears perked in case info on a procedure such as yours comes to mind.

Blessings,
mark56

I just want to extend a welcome for you...please read all you can and there are many here who have great advice and real concern.
I am sorry for your pain.
The first rhizotomies I had were a breeze...they did them with out putting me under
a change in doctors sent me on the SCS path.

keep us updated
Johanna

Dave,
Please try to avoid the surgery. The American Pain Society reported less than 20% ( I hope I have that number correct) really reduce pain. Most times there is little change. Perhaps you could call the home office of Boston Scientific and ask about the external electrodes. How can a Workers Comp company deny you medications? Go to your state insurance commissioner with written denials from the WC carrier and beg for help. It has worked in Delware and Michigan in the past for my clients. So far I haven't had to use them, but I certainly would do so. I am so sorry about your pain and then the insurance difficulties on top of that. Too much stress. drcandy