I need advice... Spinal Cord Stimulator

[RunningMom]

I'm 5 months post op of ACDF C5-C6 and I'm still in a great deal amount of pain. I'm about the same, maybe a little bit less then pre surgery. My daily migraines have gone away and I've returned some of my stregnth back. I'm in PM and I had several diagnostic nerve blocks and one ESI after surgery. The ESI gave me quite a bit relief, but only for a weeek.

I do currently have 2 herniated discs(one above/one below the fusion), but they are not on the spinal cord as of yet, according to the MRI. I know I will need them fused in the future, but I really want to put it off as long as I can. I'm currently 34 years old.

I had asked for another ESI, because of the great relief for the one week and it did take some of the pain down, but PM doctor says it's not going to work. Now he want's to put in a spinal cord stimulator and wants to do it right away.

Is it too soon to be pushing this or do you think I should go ahead with the trial? I've been reading up on it and this is not something to take lightly. My pain levels are a constant 5-7 with pain meds. The levels use to go to 10 before surgery and right after. I have not had a 10 episode since the last steroid shot that was performed on my C6-C7.  I still get horrible muscle spasms in both shoulders.

Thanks for all your advice.  

[RunningMom]

I've heard that the SCS is implanted as a last resort only.  I had my surgery in March and I wonder if I've even had enough time to heal.  I've heard that some people's pain doesn't let up for a year or so.  Also, the SCS implant leaves scar tissue where the leads are.  I wonder why my PM doc would want to have this implanted if there is a definate surgery in the future.  

[bev62]

I'm 46 and I had an ACDF (C5-C7) almost three years ago. I also have herniated disks above and below the fusion. I've been in worse pain every since I had the surgery. I have never been able to return to work nor will I ever. I am now on disability.My pain level ranges from 6 to 10 daily. My doctor looked at a SCS, but he said that my spinal opening was so narrow due to the fusion, that it could cause more problems. I am on Fentynel and oxycontin with little relief.  
I'm sorry your having so much pain. I agree with Tuck, learn as much as you can before you make a decision. Good luck

[Tuckamore]

It's good to hear from you again RunningMom but I am sorry to hear that you are faced with some difficult choices.

My best suggestion is to do exactly what you are doing. Educate yourself. Learn about the pros and cons of the procedure. Read and research as much as you can. Talk to others that have had this procedure. Make a list of questions and discuss them in detail with your physician....and than make an educated decision.

My pain level averages a 5-8 in any given day. I have discussed this procedure in depth with my PCP. We both decided that the risk and problems that can be associated with the SCS out weighted the possible pros at this time. That does not mean that it is not the right thing for you. It means we beleive it is not the correct choice for me.

Please keep in touch. I will be interested to learn of your decision. I wish you well with your search for answers. Take care.

Peace,
Tuck