Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Support Group

Im still waiting to get my SCS trial.But I have heard of restrictions that go along with the permanet implant of the SCS.I would like to hear restrictions from someone that has the implant.To see if I need to make some arrangements for someone to be here to help me.I know it might be awhile waiting on WC.But I would like to be prepared if I do need someone to help me around the house.I could go stay with my mom.I love my mom dearly and shes my best friend.But I would rather stay at my own house.Theres nothing better than being at your own house.Im sure you all know what I mean.LOL I hope everyone is having a great pain free day. "Scarface"

Hi Scarface...In reply to your question about restrictions with a SCS,here are some that will be helpful.To prevent movement of the lead,avoid these activities for 6 to 8 weeks:do not bend,twist,stretch'or lift objects over 5 pounds,do not raise your arms above your head,do not sleep on your stomach,do not climb to many stairs or sit for long periods of time.Do not drive for 2 to 4 weeks after surgery or until you discussed it with your surgeon.I hope this will be helpful.Wishing you a less painful day.

Mike

Thanks alot Mike! Those restrictions are really gonna be tough.Im used to trying to do things for myself.Hopefully I want be too bull headed and let someone help me.LOL

I he the spinal chord stimulator; have had for 8 years and live alone. The only restriction is that I cannot ever have an MRI again: not that I ever waant one but:...

Rev Maryanne

Thanks for your response Maryanne.I was just wandering about the restictions right after the implant.Good to hear you have had the SCS for 8 years.And that it is working great for you.Thanks again. "Scarface"

orks eat to give me a good lft hand and arm so I have one good arm. When the RSD started spreading from the right arm to the left one, we revised the lead to a double lead. It worked for the left arm, but the original affected rigt hand, arm, shoulder scarred overhe lead for a second time and returned the pain. Now I have pain in Right arm,, shoulder, both feet and now affecting bladder ad bowel. I wish there was a way to stop it but from what I have heard and read...

At least I have one good arm and hand thanks to the stimulator.

I wish you a good evening and restful night!

Rev Maryanne

Hi Scarface! I had the permanent implant done in Dec of 08. I am just 4 months post op! I recovered at home. My parents came down for a week to help out. Your going to need the help. Have your mom come stay with you. She will need to drive you home. You wont be able to lift your legs up when you go to lay down. It will hurt. Everything will hurt. lol But you will get through it. She will need to walk with you to the bathroom. My mom actually got in the shower with me (in her swimsuit) and helped me bathe. The first week is hard. Really hard but I think by the 5th day I was playing cards with my dad at my dining room table. By the time they left my sons did the laundy for the following week and anything that was heavier than the cat, I didnt lift. No bending, twisting, nothing, trust me, your body will stop you with pain. You will know. Just take the time you need to heal. Thats it. Listen to your body. When you need to lay down, do it. If you need to take a few steps, do it... Its all good... Hang in there and let me know how it goes~!

Painfree Hugs,

Christy

HI...I have some questions.....what about the restrictions that your have after you get the SCS..... I was told that I could not "EVER" ride my horse again...... JOG, weightlift.... anything that my cause you to fall, or over twist your body...... The list for me for things that I could not do if I had one put in was way more than I could tolerate...so..... For me ..I will not have one ..... unless I can not move other wise....

Craig

Okieladybug09 thanks for the info.I really dont want to have it done.But as of right now I dont have much of a choice now.The nerve blocks didnt work for me and I want have another one done.Ever!!!They hurt me too bad and it caused me to hurt in my back for 3 months.The pain was only in my leg below my knee into my foot.After the first block I had pain from my back down my leg into my foot.When the doc told me I wouldnt be able to drive trucks anymore.I started to just walk out the room then.I have driven trucks for 12 years.And I really had a passion for that.But there comes a time in life when you have to let some things go.I think I will be ok with the restrictions.I Hope!!!Thanks again for the info and I will keep you informed.Have a great pain free day."Scarface"

Hi Fletch

Other than the Post op restrictions that Mike mentioned above, With my SCS, I cannot sky dive, water dive below a certain feet, water ski, or anything that would cause a jerking action. There were other restrictions in the Medtronic handbook but I cannot recall them at this time.

Looking forward to others with the SCS mentioning the restrictions their docs told them about.

Warm wishes,

~rsdcrpsfire