Hello there:

I have a question about the Spinal Cord Stimulator. Is this in replacement of pain medication?? I just started on a Fentynal patch yesterday (25mcg) and i have never heard of SCS before. If I did have one inserted, would I still need to have this Fentynal patch on? Or does it replace Narcotics for pain management?? thank you for patience. Im not very knowledgeable about all these pain management options. Mykinzie......

Alot depends on what type pain you are dealing with.
I too have used the Fentanyl patches for about a year now. I have nerve damage to both legs. The patches are wonderful for pain relief, however, in my case.....like with most opioids, my tolerance will continue to go up and I would need more and more of this powerful med.
The expense of the patches, plus the side effects and long-term effects (such as depleated hormones, etc) lead us to the option of getting this device.
When we have a chronic pain issue that surgery won't help, the Dr. may suggest the SCS. There is an evaluation to take to make sure we are a good candidate. If so, there is a trial period. If the trial proves effective, then the permanent stimulator is implanted.
The SCS is not a cure, nor does it get rid of the pain. It simply 'covers over' the pain with a soothing tingling sensation. Many people are able to back off the pain meds considerably. Breakthru meds are possibly still needed however.
There is a new forum specifically for SCS and pain pumps at the top of this forum under the 'stickies'.

Let me know if you have more questions - feel free to send me a PM or simply post on the SCS forum and you will get good feedback from others with these units.

Rae

Hannah
I'm a new member.I'm also considering getting the SCS. What did you mean by not moving for 3 months? Can you tell me about your limitations after you had the implant? I'm trying to decide on getting my 3 disc's fused and then getting the SCS. I have a lot of nerve pain it goes from my right leg down to my to foot. My first surgery caused a lot of scare tissue where my incision is. Now the scare tissue is wrapped around my nerve. The doctors say there is nothing they can do about the scare tissue. If they go in and clean it off my nerve it will grow back twice as bad. If you can give me any information I would appreciate it very much. Thank, staceyc

I had my SCS implanted in April 09. My stim works for my leg pain but my back hurts and it never hurted before. Since my implant I have had to file for disability because I find myself unable to do any kind of work. I have had multiple surgeries to move the generator because it would be working its way out of the skin. By no means am I skiny. I just fell and ripped my internal stiches so Im looking at another surgery. I will not have it removed yet I will just have it fixed and try again. My doctors keep hoping for the best but Im not as hopful any more. I just feel as I have too much time and money and pain to have it removed without giving it another chance. Hope you do well with what decision you make.