I first posted this on the RSD/CRPS website but after looking around thought this is a better place. I also suffer with CRPS since 2001

Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Maine
Posts: 1
severe abdominal pain after spinal cord stimulator inserted
A friend had the spinal cord stimulator inserted for CRPS on Thurs and Sunday was in the hospital with uncontrollable abdominal pain. Cat scans and everything done were completely negative finally had some relief after massive doses of narcotics. I know one of the leads was at T12, anyone have any info would be appreciated.

We have many folks on here who have been through SCS and are currently in various stages of first implant, trial, or replacement work. I do not recall anyone specifically speaking of severe abdominal pain. Is the battery unit implanted in the tummy perhaps? Mine is in the hip.

Thank you for writing, I know others will chime in.
Prayin,
Mark56

Glad you found the SCS/Pain Pump forum!

So sorry, however, to hear of your RSD battle. My heart goes out to you.

The first thing that came to mind when I read your post is the same question Mark has asked. Is the battery unit implanted in the abdomen?
Is your friend still in the hospital?

If not, is there more info available? Such as, prognosis report/instructions from the doctor?

Is this a cervical implant? Lumbar?

Sorry for all the questions! Just trying to gain a little more insight as to your friend's situation.

We're here to help/support the best we can. We truly care!

There is much info here! Just not quite sure in which direction to search.
Can you give us more details

Caring
Rae

It is possible that if it's a lumbar implant and the stimulation is up pretty strong in the lower back area that it can also affect the abdomen. It's called the "band affect" and some can tolerate it, others don't. I feel it to some degree in my abdomen all the time, but it's not uncomfortable enough that I complain to my dr. as I so love the pain relief I'm getting from the implant for my lower back that I don't want to lose the pain relief so just put up with the funny feeling in my abdomen.

Another thought...maybe if it is a lumbar implant, it could be affecting an abdominal nerve improperly somehow??