Hello--11 years ago I was diagnosed with a lisfranc fracture--after three surgeries (including pins and bone grafts) and a broken ankle and two years after the initial injury I learned I had developed CRPS. Long story short--I was treated with a very aggresive treatment protocol consisting of three lumbar nerve blocks and one 14-day indwelling epidural catheter with a mix of medication in about three months. Then it was thought to be in remission. Now, 11 years later I HAVE to have surgery on my foot AND when I went into my neurologist and also the orthopedic surgeon to find out how to PREVENT RSD from returning, they said it was already back and they are shocked that I have had it for so long and not seeked treatment--but, I thought it was normal. Anyway, now they are going to do a nerve block BEFORE and AFTER my pin removal surgery this summer...and I have seen/discussed this with many doctors (I also work in the hospitals) and they say the best treatment course for RSD is to get a spinal stimulator the minute my pain returns to the level of intensity it was the first time.
My question--what is the new treatment protocol for RSD? What should we expect from a spinal stimulator--I.e. Does it give restrictions for swimming, bathing, showering, walking, etc.; Does it require several trips to the doctor for updates? Are they permanent? Basically, the treatment by use of a stim worries me and I would like some information--
Thanks!!
My question--what is the new treatment protocol for RSD? What should we expect from a spinal stimulator--I.e. Does it give restrictions for swimming, bathing, showering, walking, etc.; Does it require several trips to the doctor for updates? Are they permanent? Basically, the treatment by use of a stim worries me and I would like some information--
Thanks!!
I had a spinal cord stimulator implanted in 2007 for RSD in my right arm. They aren't permanate and you do not have to go back to the doctor for frequent testing. I have had mine for 5 years and had my battery replaced once. Other than that, I have had no other problems with the stimulator. I was on an extreme amount of pain medications when my doctor suggested the stimulator. My RSP had gotten to a point where wearing a t-shirt with sleeves was unbearable. When I woke up from surgery, I was in tears because I didn't feel pain. I have had a few mild flare ups since the implant due to weather changes, but they are easily managed by Ultram. I do not have any restrictions for what I can do. It was the best choice I have ever made. A miracle. If you are at the point where you aren't living life without being under the influence of narcotics, I'd suggest doing the surgery.