StMishl
11-01-2005, 08:25 PM
Hi all.
As said, I am tentatively scheduled for the stim trial on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving (so I have plenty of time to relax before I have to return to the "real world"). But am getting worried.
NOT so much for pain, I can handle that... more because I have heard this this will possibly be worthless for my back and hip pain, which are monsterous lately compared to the leg pain (and evidently it is the LEG pain it will help, and since I am 70% back/hip pain, am I making a mistake here??)
Also, The patches/MsContin combo that was holding me at around a 6 is now failing --bad ... I am back up in area of 8 at least 4 days a week (and almost every night) I hurt LOWER than usual in my back...I think maybe something is messed up a step beneath my L3-4 mechanics?? Could it be collapsing down? Late last week it suddenly began hurting tremendously. And everything is very swollen. Why is it so hard to get a dr to listen?? I know I need some twisting Xrays, or ??? but surgeon is all about Covering his BUTT! I can feel my back screws wiggling.
ALSO- I am trying to hold my marriage together, but my hubby seems so frustrated having a broken wife...I want to be able to go out for a drink, or to a club, but on these meds, hahahahaha!! All I want is a nap! I'm tring to work 3 hrs a day (Teacher's Asst) but that is for my self-esteem - and to pay for some of the med. co-pays!!
I feel 98 years old, like a hypochondriac 98 year old!! Or a drug store. I wish I didn't take so many meds, holy cow!!! :eek:
Any ideas of the likelihood the stim will work, because I really need a glimmer of hope here (I know it isn't a 100% cure, but a 2 point knock down would be GREAT!!). Anyone have experience with it helping back and hip pain??? My DREAM goal is to minimize the narcotics some so I can go back to school PT by summer and get my teaching certificate. Yet somehow I have a feeling that I will end up back in the same spot, in a few months, just with more scar tissue, and more foreign crud inside me... I know, great attitude, But so far nothing has worked.
Thanks for listening to me... this is my therapy coach so I can go be cheerful around my kids :wave:
Michelle
As said, I am tentatively scheduled for the stim trial on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving (so I have plenty of time to relax before I have to return to the "real world"). But am getting worried.
NOT so much for pain, I can handle that... more because I have heard this this will possibly be worthless for my back and hip pain, which are monsterous lately compared to the leg pain (and evidently it is the LEG pain it will help, and since I am 70% back/hip pain, am I making a mistake here??)
Also, The patches/MsContin combo that was holding me at around a 6 is now failing --bad ... I am back up in area of 8 at least 4 days a week (and almost every night) I hurt LOWER than usual in my back...I think maybe something is messed up a step beneath my L3-4 mechanics?? Could it be collapsing down? Late last week it suddenly began hurting tremendously. And everything is very swollen. Why is it so hard to get a dr to listen?? I know I need some twisting Xrays, or ??? but surgeon is all about Covering his BUTT! I can feel my back screws wiggling.
ALSO- I am trying to hold my marriage together, but my hubby seems so frustrated having a broken wife...I want to be able to go out for a drink, or to a club, but on these meds, hahahahaha!! All I want is a nap! I'm tring to work 3 hrs a day (Teacher's Asst) but that is for my self-esteem - and to pay for some of the med. co-pays!!
I feel 98 years old, like a hypochondriac 98 year old!! Or a drug store. I wish I didn't take so many meds, holy cow!!! :eek:
Any ideas of the likelihood the stim will work, because I really need a glimmer of hope here (I know it isn't a 100% cure, but a 2 point knock down would be GREAT!!). Anyone have experience with it helping back and hip pain??? My DREAM goal is to minimize the narcotics some so I can go back to school PT by summer and get my teaching certificate. Yet somehow I have a feeling that I will end up back in the same spot, in a few months, just with more scar tissue, and more foreign crud inside me... I know, great attitude, But so far nothing has worked.
Thanks for listening to me... this is my therapy coach so I can go be cheerful around my kids :wave:
Michelle
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StMishl
11-02-2005, 08:43 PM
I'm sorry for the rant yesterday (and the whine!), but I really would like to know if anyone has luck with the stim helping their BACK and HIP, or if it really is just for the leg mostly? can you describe the trial process? Will I be okay for a "normal" Thanksgiving with the trial stim? Obviously I wont be skiing or anything :)
Thanks...
Michelle
Thanks...
Michelle
jdlfmc
11-02-2005, 09:47 PM
Michelle, I had the SCS implant done earlier this year and had to have it removed due to many complications.
This only works for nerve pain so my ?? is, is your hip and back pain due to nerves or something else??
Linda
This only works for nerve pain so my ?? is, is your hip and back pain due to nerves or something else??
Linda
StMishl
11-02-2005, 11:00 PM
Linda,
your stim story is one I have followed (here and on the back boards) - so thanks for replying... I have a failed fusion - L3-L5 (and think something recently is up with a lower level too but can't get anyone to bother checking it out!!) My fusion is determined by my surgeon to have been "perfectly done" of course, but just not doing anything for the pain, but my Rheumatologist (I have RA too) and my pain specialist (a GREAT guy), and a 2nd opinion dr. --ALL of them have TONS more experience-- think the fusion is likely not holding, as my mri shows no fusing bone...YIPEE!!
My pain is in lower back Right hip and Right leg then pins/needles down Right leg. I scar SUPER easy and have had 2 RAC-Z catheders to remove the scar tissue in my spinal column, but it grows back way fast.
The reason we are considering this is that I get SOME relief from a TENS unit some they were hoping????? But???
-Michelle
your stim story is one I have followed (here and on the back boards) - so thanks for replying... I have a failed fusion - L3-L5 (and think something recently is up with a lower level too but can't get anyone to bother checking it out!!) My fusion is determined by my surgeon to have been "perfectly done" of course, but just not doing anything for the pain, but my Rheumatologist (I have RA too) and my pain specialist (a GREAT guy), and a 2nd opinion dr. --ALL of them have TONS more experience-- think the fusion is likely not holding, as my mri shows no fusing bone...YIPEE!!
My pain is in lower back Right hip and Right leg then pins/needles down Right leg. I scar SUPER easy and have had 2 RAC-Z catheders to remove the scar tissue in my spinal column, but it grows back way fast.
The reason we are considering this is that I get SOME relief from a TENS unit some they were hoping????? But???
-Michelle
jdlfmc
11-03-2005, 01:28 AM
Michelle, Have you seen Fancylady(billie) post she just had her SCS implant done recently and she may be able to give you some input.
I have to say when mine worked it was the best pain management I have had, I wish I would have been able to keep it, I just think my body wasn't going to accept it.
It would be worth the try for you I believe, if I can be of any help please feel free to shout..
I wish you the best..
Linda
I have to say when mine worked it was the best pain management I have had, I wish I would have been able to keep it, I just think my body wasn't going to accept it.
It would be worth the try for you I believe, if I can be of any help please feel free to shout..
I wish you the best..
Linda
MizLiz
11-03-2005, 01:42 AM
Michelle,
First off let me introduce myself. I am Liz. Been hanging around these boards for maybe 6 months or so. Post now and then but do read alot.
Let me jump in here to see if I can help at least share with you my experience. I have chronic low back pain (failed back surgery) and neuropathic pain & weakness in right leg. I had 2 SCS trials prior to my permanent implant. The reason for the 2nd trial was that I wasnt getting as much relief on my back. They moved the leads a bit and I was able to get some help with the back. I wont kid you, the SCS is not as successful with the back like my leg. Great realief on the leg. I really do notice though, when i turn it off or have a malfunction that my pain levels are very high. Like you, any reduction in pain is a big deal. So I think that you should look forward to this experience and know that everyone is different.
As for the trial, IMO yes you should be ok for thanksgiving (meaning no surgery pain). I am not sure what you mean by "normal". SCS isnt a cure all and probably wont be the miracle you want but as far as uncomplicated for thanksgiving yeah and hopefully with some pain relief. At least I would hope so.
Relatively speaking (and it sounds like you've had some painful procedures) the procedure for the trial is minor. I was given something 2 relax me and numb up where they insert the leads. They kept me alert enough so I could tell them what I could feel and the best possible stimulation to relieve pain. When leads are in place and adjustments done they taped down the leads and put transmitter (small box) so that it could be clipped to my pants. I had 2 weeks total (2 trials). decision for the permanent implant was made after that. Remember that if it doesnt work for you then at least you know and no further decision is made. But if it helps then great for you.
Overall, my SCS helps me tons. This is not to say that its perfect. NOT. I do get frustrated with the malfunctions and need for revision. And now possibly a complete system replacement to a different company. But overall, I use it 20 - 23 hours a day (24/7 if it wasnt malfunctioning). It is a huge part of my pain management.
Also, I am still on narcotics and it is a part of the pain management. For me, it is not realistic to not have them. I was able to reduce some of the morphine after implant. However, on really bad days I do need to increase meds. (just want to be realistic with you)
Good Luck. if you have more ??? let me know. Liz
First off let me introduce myself. I am Liz. Been hanging around these boards for maybe 6 months or so. Post now and then but do read alot.
Let me jump in here to see if I can help at least share with you my experience. I have chronic low back pain (failed back surgery) and neuropathic pain & weakness in right leg. I had 2 SCS trials prior to my permanent implant. The reason for the 2nd trial was that I wasnt getting as much relief on my back. They moved the leads a bit and I was able to get some help with the back. I wont kid you, the SCS is not as successful with the back like my leg. Great realief on the leg. I really do notice though, when i turn it off or have a malfunction that my pain levels are very high. Like you, any reduction in pain is a big deal. So I think that you should look forward to this experience and know that everyone is different.
As for the trial, IMO yes you should be ok for thanksgiving (meaning no surgery pain). I am not sure what you mean by "normal". SCS isnt a cure all and probably wont be the miracle you want but as far as uncomplicated for thanksgiving yeah and hopefully with some pain relief. At least I would hope so.
Relatively speaking (and it sounds like you've had some painful procedures) the procedure for the trial is minor. I was given something 2 relax me and numb up where they insert the leads. They kept me alert enough so I could tell them what I could feel and the best possible stimulation to relieve pain. When leads are in place and adjustments done they taped down the leads and put transmitter (small box) so that it could be clipped to my pants. I had 2 weeks total (2 trials). decision for the permanent implant was made after that. Remember that if it doesnt work for you then at least you know and no further decision is made. But if it helps then great for you.
Overall, my SCS helps me tons. This is not to say that its perfect. NOT. I do get frustrated with the malfunctions and need for revision. And now possibly a complete system replacement to a different company. But overall, I use it 20 - 23 hours a day (24/7 if it wasnt malfunctioning). It is a huge part of my pain management.
Also, I am still on narcotics and it is a part of the pain management. For me, it is not realistic to not have them. I was able to reduce some of the morphine after implant. However, on really bad days I do need to increase meds. (just want to be realistic with you)
Good Luck. if you have more ??? let me know. Liz
StMishl
11-04-2005, 04:49 PM
Thank you both very much. Can I ask what pain meds you were on prior to the stim, Liz, and what now? I am on Duragesic 25 every 72 hrs + MSContin 15 every 12 hrs + Neurotin 900 every 8 hrs, (all from my pain specialist) but feel that these are both under-managing my pain already... I've been on the patches for 6 months (orig. at 48 hrs but then my insurance chanced to only allow 10/month -- GRRR!!). I am unsure why he does not want to go up in strength before tryng an implant... it was as if he really want to try the stim FIRST. I guess He saw my films and can tell there is NO hope of my getting better!!
He also REALLY wants to to see another (different) spinal specialist for a 2nd opinion regarding a revision of my fusion... but I am too scared to even think about THAT!!!
Any suggestions to make this more successfful? I teach 1st & 2nd grade Montessori?
Thank you..
Michelle
He also REALLY wants to to see another (different) spinal specialist for a 2nd opinion regarding a revision of my fusion... but I am too scared to even think about THAT!!!
Any suggestions to make this more successfful? I teach 1st & 2nd grade Montessori?
Thank you..
Michelle
DomNakita
11-04-2005, 05:54 PM
Michelle,
God do I know what you mean about not wanting to see more or different doc's, but I have to urge you to take your primary's advise and see a different surgeon!
I was so far under the pain I was dealing with, that I couldn't even drive to get to a dr. and the one I was being referred to was 3 hours away! But I eventually got talked into making the trip and taking the chance on seeing another new doc, and actually let him talk me into another surgery (though he had to provide an amazing amount of proof to get me to believe him!!!) And I was able to go from Duragesics 75 every 48 hrs to just a minimal 40 mgs of oxycontin within a week after the surgery!
Unfortunately, my condition is a degrading one, so I am a long way from where I was at that time, but I for one will tout the praises of a surgeon that is actually a GOOD DOCTOR! So I would urge you to take the chance, and expend the energy to find a surgeon that is worthwhile and could maybe help you amazingly!
--
DomNakita
God do I know what you mean about not wanting to see more or different doc's, but I have to urge you to take your primary's advise and see a different surgeon!
I was so far under the pain I was dealing with, that I couldn't even drive to get to a dr. and the one I was being referred to was 3 hours away! But I eventually got talked into making the trip and taking the chance on seeing another new doc, and actually let him talk me into another surgery (though he had to provide an amazing amount of proof to get me to believe him!!!) And I was able to go from Duragesics 75 every 48 hrs to just a minimal 40 mgs of oxycontin within a week after the surgery!
Unfortunately, my condition is a degrading one, so I am a long way from where I was at that time, but I for one will tout the praises of a surgeon that is actually a GOOD DOCTOR! So I would urge you to take the chance, and expend the energy to find a surgeon that is worthwhile and could maybe help you amazingly!
--
DomNakita
MizLiz
11-04-2005, 06:33 PM
Michelle,
It's hard for me to remember all the meds I was on. I had severe reactions to some and the doctor kept trying a bunch of new stuff on me. This is what I remember MS contin15mg 6X, Vicodin 7.5/750 4X, Valium 5mg 4X, Fiorinal w/codeine (for spinal leak HA) , Dilaudid 4mg & 8mg (for BT pain)PRN, neurontin & gabatrol ??? and a whole bunch of stuff for my stomach. They tried the fentynal patch but I am allergic to both adhesive and fentynal. Now I am on MS contin 15mg 2-3X, Vicodin 7.5/750 4X, Norco 10/325 1X (for normal days) add in Fiorinal & more hydrocodone for bad days (oh yeah I also take adderall to avoid the lethargic stuff). Before my implant my doctor was very generous with the meds (I was lucky) he gave me a lot of just in case meds and told me that he trusted me! After things stabilized a bit and I lost my job & insurance I now see my GP who just writes scripts for the PM doctor. Cheaper that way!
Now I have my disability and medicaid so I can get the implant fixed. My PM doctor wants me to switch from Medtronic to ANS. I am still leary of surgery since my last revision so I am putting it off. I have one channel that is totally not working so I just turn up the other one really high and it helps both leg & back.
A teacher huh? I also worked professionally with kids (PreK-HS) It broke my heart when I couldnt keep my job anymore. Those kids were my life. I cried everyday with pain though. I couldnt get on the floor anymore with them or do the things I used to. Everything hurt and I didnt want the kids to see me like that.
Lets see what else....well this is long enough for now and I need to take a break then come back to the computer so here ya go. Let me know what more questions, concerns, etc. Liz
It's hard for me to remember all the meds I was on. I had severe reactions to some and the doctor kept trying a bunch of new stuff on me. This is what I remember MS contin15mg 6X, Vicodin 7.5/750 4X, Valium 5mg 4X, Fiorinal w/codeine (for spinal leak HA) , Dilaudid 4mg & 8mg (for BT pain)PRN, neurontin & gabatrol ??? and a whole bunch of stuff for my stomach. They tried the fentynal patch but I am allergic to both adhesive and fentynal. Now I am on MS contin 15mg 2-3X, Vicodin 7.5/750 4X, Norco 10/325 1X (for normal days) add in Fiorinal & more hydrocodone for bad days (oh yeah I also take adderall to avoid the lethargic stuff). Before my implant my doctor was very generous with the meds (I was lucky) he gave me a lot of just in case meds and told me that he trusted me! After things stabilized a bit and I lost my job & insurance I now see my GP who just writes scripts for the PM doctor. Cheaper that way!
Now I have my disability and medicaid so I can get the implant fixed. My PM doctor wants me to switch from Medtronic to ANS. I am still leary of surgery since my last revision so I am putting it off. I have one channel that is totally not working so I just turn up the other one really high and it helps both leg & back.
A teacher huh? I also worked professionally with kids (PreK-HS) It broke my heart when I couldnt keep my job anymore. Those kids were my life. I cried everyday with pain though. I couldnt get on the floor anymore with them or do the things I used to. Everything hurt and I didnt want the kids to see me like that.
Lets see what else....well this is long enough for now and I need to take a break then come back to the computer so here ya go. Let me know what more questions, concerns, etc. Liz
Miss Idaho
11-05-2005, 03:05 PM
Hi Liz, I read your post and was very interested about trading devices from Medronic to ANS. Why does he want you to change? And the other ? is what benefit is there to take all those pain med's? I am in severe pain in my lumbar, thoracic and cervical. But I have the worst pain now in my legs and feet and now it has gone into my arms and legs. My Neuro Surgeon only gives me Norco/10. I see on the boards that alot of people are taking numerous drugs too and I wanted too know if it would help me too. Now they want me to try the spinal Stimulator and it is scary too me. Also I have a law suit going against Medronics because my lumbar screws fractured after 3 mo's they were put in. They also fractured 4 years ago in my neck after 6 mo's. (ANYONE HAD A BAD RELATIONSHIP WITH THIS CO.Medtronics?)
I wear a back brace and my neck brace and also a bone stimulator. I can't walk hardly at all. My feet are freezing and burning all the time and my freaking legs are.........well I just want to cut them off. I filed for SSD and it is in the reconsideration stage now after I had to have my 5th surgery on my back after the fractured screws. I was tested for Neuropathy because I had about 12 symtoms but the PM doc said it was negative. I was shocked. So what could it be if not Neuropathy? I am NOT diabetic but have damaged nerves since they have been in my back 5 times. Here is my profile.
4 neck surgeries- 1 w/fractured screws
5 back surgeries- 1 w/fractured screws
I have had numerouse kinds of treatment over the past 10 years
PLEASE HELP FROM ANYONE. I KNOW WHAT ALL OF YOU ARE GOING THRU!!
HUGS,
DEB :confused:
I wear a back brace and my neck brace and also a bone stimulator. I can't walk hardly at all. My feet are freezing and burning all the time and my freaking legs are.........well I just want to cut them off. I filed for SSD and it is in the reconsideration stage now after I had to have my 5th surgery on my back after the fractured screws. I was tested for Neuropathy because I had about 12 symtoms but the PM doc said it was negative. I was shocked. So what could it be if not Neuropathy? I am NOT diabetic but have damaged nerves since they have been in my back 5 times. Here is my profile.
4 neck surgeries- 1 w/fractured screws
5 back surgeries- 1 w/fractured screws
I have had numerouse kinds of treatment over the past 10 years
PLEASE HELP FROM ANYONE. I KNOW WHAT ALL OF YOU ARE GOING THRU!!
HUGS,
DEB :confused:
MizLiz
11-05-2005, 05:23 PM
Deb, OMG I am sorry you are having such horrible pain and problems. The meds I am on seem like a lot but each one helps control the pain differently. The combination of meds and SCS really helps me though. Without the 2 together I can barely get out of bed or stay upright very long because of pain and chronic spinal headaches.
My doctor wants me to switch to ANS because I have had nothing but malfunctions with Medtronics. He also has several other patients with the same type problems who he switched to ANS and they are doing better. Medtronics has been difficult to work with IMO. I tell them something is not working right and they test the system and say everything is fine then my doctor agrees with me and does surgery to find that indeed wire is broken or something. It has happened 3x with Medtronics saying the system is fine and its not. But you know I still benefit from the dang thing so I just keep working with it. My doctor has also done repairs to the Medtronic system like reinforcing their connections and trying to better water proof their IPG. Also, ANS has more programming possibilities which I think will help my situation.
I dont know about the neuropathy. I have been diagnosed with neuropathic pain and weakness in my right leg but I dont know how the doctor made the diagnosis. It was kind of a blurry time for me. Lots of tests, surgeries, procedures, and complications. Sorry cant help ya there. I do know that people who have a lot of pain in their extremeties seem to like the SCS the best just from what I have read from people on a few different boards. Good Luck. Liz
My doctor wants me to switch to ANS because I have had nothing but malfunctions with Medtronics. He also has several other patients with the same type problems who he switched to ANS and they are doing better. Medtronics has been difficult to work with IMO. I tell them something is not working right and they test the system and say everything is fine then my doctor agrees with me and does surgery to find that indeed wire is broken or something. It has happened 3x with Medtronics saying the system is fine and its not. But you know I still benefit from the dang thing so I just keep working with it. My doctor has also done repairs to the Medtronic system like reinforcing their connections and trying to better water proof their IPG. Also, ANS has more programming possibilities which I think will help my situation.
I dont know about the neuropathy. I have been diagnosed with neuropathic pain and weakness in my right leg but I dont know how the doctor made the diagnosis. It was kind of a blurry time for me. Lots of tests, surgeries, procedures, and complications. Sorry cant help ya there. I do know that people who have a lot of pain in their extremeties seem to like the SCS the best just from what I have read from people on a few different boards. Good Luck. Liz
Miss Idaho
11-07-2005, 02:22 AM
Liz, you little sweetie thanks. I just wish someone out there would give me some idea what I have if it is not P Neuropathy. PLEASE ANYONE LOOK AT MY POSTS!!! I have to get into the pain M doc this week because SSD is making a there report soon they are tired of waiting for me. They may have enough Info to approve and you would think so because I am basically bed riddin.
I am not complaining to all of you that are suffering, I am not in in wheel chair yet but 1 doc said it may be soon with all the nerve damage. We are all family here and you are all great, fantastic, above all that. I can't do this anymore. I am ready to go. I do not want to live anymore, and I am not feeling sorry for myself. I cannot take care of ME anymore because for the last 2 nites I have had too try to lift my husband into a car to take him to the hospital because I thought he was dieing.
2 nites in a row and I tryed to lift him, and I am 123lbs. and he is 159 into my car to take him to the HOSPITAL, it turns out he was so drunk 6xthe limit
and I knew he had only a couple of drinks. BLAH BLAH he was hiding the
booze in the garage.
I can't go on w/ this I have to go to bed. Liz if you know of anyone that can help me w a Diagnosis and some how get appoved for SSD please send them this or let me know. I may not get back to you all.
It just doesn't matter any more.
Love to all take care and don't take what I have
Deb love and God bless
I am not complaining to all of you that are suffering, I am not in in wheel chair yet but 1 doc said it may be soon with all the nerve damage. We are all family here and you are all great, fantastic, above all that. I can't do this anymore. I am ready to go. I do not want to live anymore, and I am not feeling sorry for myself. I cannot take care of ME anymore because for the last 2 nites I have had too try to lift my husband into a car to take him to the hospital because I thought he was dieing.
2 nites in a row and I tryed to lift him, and I am 123lbs. and he is 159 into my car to take him to the HOSPITAL, it turns out he was so drunk 6xthe limit
and I knew he had only a couple of drinks. BLAH BLAH he was hiding the
booze in the garage.
I can't go on w/ this I have to go to bed. Liz if you know of anyone that can help me w a Diagnosis and some how get appoved for SSD please send them this or let me know. I may not get back to you all.
It just doesn't matter any more.
Love to all take care and don't take what I have
Deb love and God bless
StMishl
11-08-2005, 11:00 PM
Deb,
I will agree with Liz, we take so many meds due to the different functions. Your case sounds horrid. I also have a "likely" broken screw (likely as 1 dr says yes/1 says no!) I am doing the trial stimulator the day before thanksgiving. I currently am taking Duragesic patches(a narcotic), Neurotin (nerve pain), Percocet (Break Thru Pain Meds), Xanex (anxiety), Celexa (depression), Enbrel & Methotrexate (Rheum Arthritis), Topomax (migraines & nerve pain). Yep! I am a walking pharmacy. Each does its "own thing" and makes up a cocktail that gets me out of bed in the morning (or most mornings). I am praying the Stimulator will knock down (or out??) some of the narcotics, as I am a PT elementary teacher and I really want to go pack FT in the spring and go back to school for my masters in the summer. We'll see.
You sound like you desperately need a different dr if you have all those issues and only 1 short acting pain med!!?!?!?!? And why are you trying to LIFT anything heavier then a soda can (lifting your hubby is a big NO NO!!)
It sounds like you need help. Can you get some??
-Michelle
I will agree with Liz, we take so many meds due to the different functions. Your case sounds horrid. I also have a "likely" broken screw (likely as 1 dr says yes/1 says no!) I am doing the trial stimulator the day before thanksgiving. I currently am taking Duragesic patches(a narcotic), Neurotin (nerve pain), Percocet (Break Thru Pain Meds), Xanex (anxiety), Celexa (depression), Enbrel & Methotrexate (Rheum Arthritis), Topomax (migraines & nerve pain). Yep! I am a walking pharmacy. Each does its "own thing" and makes up a cocktail that gets me out of bed in the morning (or most mornings). I am praying the Stimulator will knock down (or out??) some of the narcotics, as I am a PT elementary teacher and I really want to go pack FT in the spring and go back to school for my masters in the summer. We'll see.
You sound like you desperately need a different dr if you have all those issues and only 1 short acting pain med!!?!?!?!? And why are you trying to LIFT anything heavier then a soda can (lifting your hubby is a big NO NO!!)
It sounds like you need help. Can you get some??
-Michelle
MizLiz
11-09-2005, 12:33 PM
Michelle, I am hoping for your success with the SCS. I also wanted to pass along a little bit of advice from a person who has worked in the education field. I know how anxious you are to get back to your kiddos. Take it easy and dont go back to soon to full time. During the SCS trial and beginning of permanent implant it is VERY important that the leads not migrate. You have to discipline yourself not to twist, bend, or stretch your arms above your head. Let the implant do its job by providing you with relief. If you feel better, relax and enjoy it. Too much too soon will only push your recovery way back or even cause you to have more surgery. When working with kids it is very easy to forget that you shouldnt be moving a certain way. Good Luck to you. Please let me know how it goes or if you have last minute jitters before trial.
Deb, I understand how frustrated and low you are feeling right now. Been there, done that. One thing that helped my disability case was that I found a lawyer who took a different approach. Since I already had tons of medical documentation, he did a "Request for on the Record Expedited Review". He did a wonderful summary of everything that I had been through and supported it with medical evidence. After the judge reviewed it, he still wanted to talk to me. So my hearing was basically testimony from me and my kids as to my day to day functioning, pain, and how much I was unable to do. Do you have a lawyer? Maybe its time someone pulled all your existing information together to present to SSD. Also, I totally agree with Michelle. Get to a doctor who will address your pain issues now. As you can see the meds we are taking address different aspects of pain, maybe you are in need of that type of approach. Good Luck. Dont give up.
Liz
Deb, I understand how frustrated and low you are feeling right now. Been there, done that. One thing that helped my disability case was that I found a lawyer who took a different approach. Since I already had tons of medical documentation, he did a "Request for on the Record Expedited Review". He did a wonderful summary of everything that I had been through and supported it with medical evidence. After the judge reviewed it, he still wanted to talk to me. So my hearing was basically testimony from me and my kids as to my day to day functioning, pain, and how much I was unable to do. Do you have a lawyer? Maybe its time someone pulled all your existing information together to present to SSD. Also, I totally agree with Michelle. Get to a doctor who will address your pain issues now. As you can see the meds we are taking address different aspects of pain, maybe you are in need of that type of approach. Good Luck. Dont give up.
Liz
Miss Idaho
11-09-2005, 02:22 PM
:) Hi Michelle and Liz,
You are 2 very special ladies. Thanks for all your help. I am at the reconsideration stage right now which a lawyer doesn't what to get involved until I am denied at this stage. They don't want to have to do too much ya know for the money you give them. Plus it is in the final medical review and they are now ready to give a decision, although they are holding up a little until I see the pain management doc. I don't know how much longer they will wait. Anyway will the PM doc give me some kind of special cocktail (hee hee)
like you guys have. I called the nurse at my Neuro surgeon's office and asked her about oxycotton and she said he does not like to manage that drug because it is far more addictive than Norco. So I don't know what to expect.
Love to all
Deb :wave:
You are 2 very special ladies. Thanks for all your help. I am at the reconsideration stage right now which a lawyer doesn't what to get involved until I am denied at this stage. They don't want to have to do too much ya know for the money you give them. Plus it is in the final medical review and they are now ready to give a decision, although they are holding up a little until I see the pain management doc. I don't know how much longer they will wait. Anyway will the PM doc give me some kind of special cocktail (hee hee)
like you guys have. I called the nurse at my Neuro surgeon's office and asked her about oxycotton and she said he does not like to manage that drug because it is far more addictive than Norco. So I don't know what to expect.
Love to all
Deb :wave:
StMishl
11-09-2005, 10:11 PM
Girls,
Thanks for replying!
Liz: Thanks for the advise. I am really not too nearvise about the trial, just REALLY want it to work. If we go with the "real" one I will do it the 1st day of Winter holiday so I have almost 3 weeks off to sit and do a lot of healing. If it doesn't work, I am supposed to meet with a new spine specialist to talk about an exploratory surgery to figure out what in the HECK is up that is causing such a deterioration. I will take every hint you have. Did you say you had a fusion ever? This can't be as bad was it??
Deb,
You sound MUCH happier today. Maybe knowing hope with the Pain Management doctor is on the way (hopefully) helps? Be prepared if this is your first visit - to fill out LOTS of paperwork. I remember lots of pages trying to expain my pain's location and "type" and strength in words. These and your exam help the PM know which meds to try 1st. Also know that the first meds may not be the perfect match, and it may take awhile to get the right match. Most drs won't start on a high dose. YOu start low and they will raise it or change it if necessary. Best wishes!!!
Talk to you both soon!
Thanks for replying!
Liz: Thanks for the advise. I am really not too nearvise about the trial, just REALLY want it to work. If we go with the "real" one I will do it the 1st day of Winter holiday so I have almost 3 weeks off to sit and do a lot of healing. If it doesn't work, I am supposed to meet with a new spine specialist to talk about an exploratory surgery to figure out what in the HECK is up that is causing such a deterioration. I will take every hint you have. Did you say you had a fusion ever? This can't be as bad was it??
Deb,
You sound MUCH happier today. Maybe knowing hope with the Pain Management doctor is on the way (hopefully) helps? Be prepared if this is your first visit - to fill out LOTS of paperwork. I remember lots of pages trying to expain my pain's location and "type" and strength in words. These and your exam help the PM know which meds to try 1st. Also know that the first meds may not be the perfect match, and it may take awhile to get the right match. Most drs won't start on a high dose. YOu start low and they will raise it or change it if necessary. Best wishes!!!
Talk to you both soon!
MizLiz
11-10-2005, 11:21 AM
Michelle, my fusion was postponed indefinitely because I had serious complications with spinal fluid leak(s). However, I do know a couple people who have had both a fusion and SCS. According to them the actual procedure for the SCS is minimal and trial a "piece of cake" in comparison to a fusion. I have had exploratory also which involved a week in the hospital because they did additional tests & I was still suffering the effects of spinal leaks. Horrible, would not do it again. But my situation is unique so dont base your judgement on mine. Glad to hear you have time off from work to heal. It takes about 6 weeks for the scar tissue to "set" your leads in place so keep that in mind if you do go on to the permanent. You can still walk for exercise which I found in the nice fresh outdoors can be mentally healing also. Glad to hear you are upbeat and READY for the trial.
Deb, I am glad to hear that you are still in the consideration stage which means there is still a chance that they will approve you without the hassle of appeal. Good Luck! and Good Luck at the PM clinic/doctor I am hopeful that you will get what you need and have a good evaluation. and oh yea, neuro's are not real into chronic pain management meds. Short acting is pretty much their comfort level. Dont sweat it, the PM guy or gal hopefully can get you on something appropriate.
Well girls, take care and I will check in again later. Maybe the two of you can help me out with something I got brewing on my end. Social Security is telling me they are going to cut my cash benefits in half even though I dont have any income. Go figure! Should I start a new post? Gotta go for now. Liz
Deb, I am glad to hear that you are still in the consideration stage which means there is still a chance that they will approve you without the hassle of appeal. Good Luck! and Good Luck at the PM clinic/doctor I am hopeful that you will get what you need and have a good evaluation. and oh yea, neuro's are not real into chronic pain management meds. Short acting is pretty much their comfort level. Dont sweat it, the PM guy or gal hopefully can get you on something appropriate.
Well girls, take care and I will check in again later. Maybe the two of you can help me out with something I got brewing on my end. Social Security is telling me they are going to cut my cash benefits in half even though I dont have any income. Go figure! Should I start a new post? Gotta go for now. Liz
Miss Idaho
11-10-2005, 04:41 PM
Hello girls, I have my appointment on the 21st I think. I am so sick to death going to the doctor everyweek. Just what is the SCS? Is it like the spinal Stem Stimulator? Thanks for all your concern for me, no one else cares.
Later
Deb
Later
Deb
MizLiz
11-10-2005, 05:13 PM
Sorry bout that, SCS (Spinal Cord Stimulator)!
MizLiz
11-10-2005, 06:43 PM
Deb, Take care and hang in there. Liz