Hello everyone,

Thank you for your friendship and on-going support. Today is day four of my Test SCS and what a difference it makes. It has reduces my pain in most places by approximately 60-65%. The target area is left hand, arm, shoulder, throughout my neck area. For the most part I had good coverage in my hand, arm, some times in right arm, some times on high, some times low, sometimes on shoulder. Have any of you had this type of problem? Does it go away with the Permanet Stimulator? The unit we are using is a Medtronic and my Test SCS is scheduled to be removed tomorrow (she will be missed).

Also, I only had one program to work with but, that’s ok, I look forward to trying out multiple programs the future. I am hoping to have my Permanent SCS implanted in January.

Debi

My coverage area is only up to my elbow so I don't know about not getting as much coverage in your shoulder and neck area. But I do know that I often feel the stimulation in my other hand as well. Because the cervical space that the leads are in is so small and tight, there are a lot of positional changes when you move (the stim getting stronger or weaker) and also this is why it can be felt in the other side of the body as well. As far as that goes, it's better with the perm, but definitely still there. I would talk to your doctor about getting more coverage for the upper area, though.

Hi Debi

I have the SCS in my lumbar region, so cant answer about arms, neck , shoulders....

My areas of pain are my lower back, my bum, and down both legs....

I get relief in my legs while Im standing and walking around, but it doesnt reach up to my back....I was told at the start that the SCS is very good for neuropathic pain in the legs as opposed to the back. However, when I have it turned up HIGH and Im lying down I do get some relief in my lower back, but obviously I cant be lying down all the time. But I would have about 60% relief from pain too. I have it about 2 years now and certainly wouldnt be without it.

You WILL miss the trial.....be prepared! but at least you know you will be getting the permanent one in January......

Good luck

Jackie

Praying,
as we all understand
"By the GRACE of God
his GRACE

Hi Debi,
I have two SCS's, cervical and thoracic. My cervical SCS covers both hands, all the way up my arms and into my shoulders. Sometimes I feel it in the back of my head (which I love), but not in my neck (which I wish it covered). But I am not complaining, it gives pretty good coverage and has helped a lot.

The permanent implant has a much steadier stimulation than the trial did since the leads are more secure.

Glad your trial is going well.
Nanc

Hey! It's good to have you on board!

Yes, you will certainly miss the unit when they take out the trial. Hopefully you won't have too long to wait for your perm. January would be great!

I'm a lumbar case, so I can't give much useful input, but as you can see, there are plenty of people who care and you'll get lots of good input.
Sounds like you are getting pretty decent coverage during the trial. They will fine tune your permanent til you get the right coverage, even if it takes a few tweek sessions. That's pretty normal.

Let us know how this goes!

Caring,
Rae