Hello , I had a scs trial implanted on monday am. At 1st it seemed to be working pretty well. Now I'm not so sure it would be worth having the perm. unit installed. It doesn't seem to help as much as I expected. They will take the leads out on Thurs. am and I really don't know what I'm going to do??? Does anyone know if the permanent unit is better or about the same? This is being used for rsd/cprs in leg and nerve pain in shoulder and arm. It does work some but ..............
AJS

Glad you've found your way to this wonderful neck of the woods....
But I'm sorry it has to be under frustrating circumstances....

Where are the leads placed? I'm guessing in the cervical ? since it's targeting your shoulder and arm........but to cover the leg.....hmmm

Mine is a lumbar implant and it does wonders for the nerve pain in both my legs...
Do you feel you are getting better coverage with your nerve pain in your upper body?
Have you been in contact with the Rep who would be reprogramming and 'tweeking' you?

If it seemed to be working pretty well at first, that's a good sign. And if your trial leads are just percutaneously placed, it's very possible the leads have slipped a bit, especially since they are at the mercy of the tape all over your back.....yes?
I hope your Rep will work with you in trying out different program settings to cover different areas B4 they pull the leads out.....
Please let us know how it goes!!

Truly Caring
Rae

I would guess that rrae is right about your leads slipping some, talk it over with your doc and your rep about the change in pain management etc

Thanks for the replies. I never thought about the leads slipping . That seems to make some sense. They put in 2 leads. 1 high and 1 low. I did talk to the rep the day after they were put in,when they were doing more good. I am going to call him right now and let him know what is up. Thanks again,
AJS

This is a pretty BIG decision, so make sure you've given it a real good 'run' .
MAKE the Reps take however long it takes to get results. That's what they are paid to do! I felt rushed because the hospital was busy and it caused me quite a bit of stress.
Don't settle for anything less than 100% of their attention B4 taking those leads out! Some Reps will work for HOURS if that's what it takes.
They have a zillion different settings to try, so there's apt to be a combination that'll work for you!

I'm intriqued that they've done one lead higher than the other! I've heard of this (to give more coverage) , 'staggering' the leads.
Did they do this just for the trial or will they do it that way if/when you get the permanent.
So, you've got dual leads. Are they talking about percutaneous (under the skin) - that's how mine are - ...or, are you going to get the 'Laminectomy', which is more involved. ? Just curious.

I really hope they spend ample time with you with the different settings if there is any remote chance that this could give you pain relief!!
You deserve it!

......not to mention, we're talking $100 thousand dollar unit here!
Soooooo, yeah. Make tomorrow count!!

Prayin,
Rae

Like Rae said, spend as much time with the SCS Reps and let them work their magic until things are right (sounds like something is "off-whack"). Getting this trial is a big deal and some big decisions must be made so be sure to fully engage yourself with your Rep (now is not the time to be shy) and do not get discouraged off the bat. These stimulators are not your area of expertise (unfortunately the pain is for you) so be sure to work together as a team. Your Rep usually keeps in touch on a daily basis with you during the trial so just go ahead and be as descriptive as you can. The sensation the stim provides can take a few days to get used to, but if things are working right your decision to go or forgo the permanent implant should be a no-brainer (at least it was for me )

Good luck!!!! Vanna

Well After talking it over with the rep, I had them take the leads out .After just a little time I made my decision. I'm going ahead with the perm. unit. I realized that I was getting more relief than I thought. All the pain was back and I wish I had that think now!!! Thank you everyone for the advice. Now the insurance dance starts. Wish me luck.
AJS