Should I give the neurostimulation device a try?

[MrsSinger]

I went to a new spine surgeon today hoping and praying that he would consider surgery on my back. I have had 2 bulging discs for a year now and its getting to the point where I can barely get out of bed in the morning, it's causing me to go into deep depression and I just feel like I can't live on the pain pills like this anymore. He told me he wanted to send me to another doctor that would do a test trial with a neurostimulation device. I have the book of info and I read about it but it will only mask the pain if it works. I want a CURE. I have read some posts that people love it but they still take their pain medicine and still have pain. I can deal with a little pain but I am just a little iffy about this device. Does anyone have any advice or stories about your own? He mentioned that if the trial of this device does not work that we could discuss other plans, maybe surgery. I think a scope procedure to shave the bulging disc away from the nerve would help me but he doesn't think so. He said my MRI looks healthy (other than my bulging discs and DDD and i'm only 22 years old WTF?). If I do consider trying the trial and it helps a little I am thinking about just telling them it didn't do enough for me that I want to move to another step (hint hint SURGERY). I know many people say "No don't get surgery it leads to more problems."    Well what in the hell am I supposed to do? I have tried EVERYTHING. ESI's, PT, Chiropractor, Acupuncture, TENS unit, back braces...you name it.

This pain is taking over my life and I can't do a damn thing about it. My PCP prescribes me 120 hydrocodone 10 mg and expects me to take 4 per day. I have to take 5-6 a day at least to be able to work, be a mother and to GET OUT OF BED. I'm so depressed and its changing ME. I have turned into a totally different person in the last year of the pain and I don't like it at all. I have never felt so alone in my life, even though I have a loving husband and a perfect son. Not to mention I am blessed with the BEST mother and father in law in the world. And my parents and brothers.

Any ideas or encouraging words?

[MrsSinger]

Hi,

The doctor gave me a catalog about the unit and its the St. Jude Medical brand. If you want to send me a message with your suggestions and thoughts about it I would greatly appreciate that!

Thank you!

[SLCPMOM]

Dear MrsSinger,
I can get into great detail of neurostimulation device with you but I know you probably don't want to hear it all.  I will tell you that it is not a cure but it can alleviate your pain.  Somethings I will tell you to pay close attention to.  First, the brand of device your Doc wants to trial you with.  There are two great devices available now.  One is Boston Scientific and the other is St. Jude Medical (ANS).  The great thing about the trial (in my experience) is that you will either love it or hate it and it doesn't have to be permanent.  Your Doc will want to see a greater than 50% improvement in your pain before he will want to do a permanant implant.  I will be happy to discuss this with you in further detail.  I wish you all the best and my prayers are with you.

[sharadale]

I have no personal experience with the device you mention, but I understand your de[presion. Consider this, If your surgeon is suggesting something other than surgery, Do it!
Surgeons usually always recommend surgery so please try it. It won't make it worse. Please know that you are not alone. Many of us experience the same pain and frustration of not living a full life as you. You do have many things going for you. Just the fact that you are young is a big + in your favor. The young generally heal faster.
So I will pray for you and your family. Good luck