Note from Connected Carole:
This month’s guest post is an 18-minute video from Joseph. It showcases a spinal stimulator success story. I have included notes to introduce the subject before you watch the video.
Our guest videographer
Joseph of Borg,
Producer, the Chronic Pain Call-in Show on Sunday evenings, 7:30 p.m., Central time
See his Facebook page for more info.
About Joseph
His explanation for his name and picture:
Joseph has a computer attached to his spinal cord that lets him walk. And he’s a Trekkie.
He has lived with chronic pain for over a decade, so he has tried many types of pain management, maybe all of them. Because of his inoperable back issues, he uses a spinal stimulator.
What is a spinal cord stimulator?
Also known as Dorsal Column Stimulator.
“A spinal cord stimulator is an implanted device that sends low levels of electricity directly into the spinal cord to relieve pain. Spinal cord stimulation is used most often after nonsurgical pain treatment options have failed to provide sufficient relief. Spinal cord stimulators require two procedures to test and implant the device: the trial and the implantation. Spinal cord stimulation can improve overall quality of life and sleep, and reduce the need for pain medicines. It is typically used along with other pain management treatments.” For more information about this subject, read the full article by Dr. Eellan Sivanesan, Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Wikipedia and WebMD are also good sources to learn more about this subject.
I like how you say “You never know if you’re the 40%.” I have learned I want to stay away from surgery as much as humanly possible, but when you are in that kind of pain with no end in sight, we will do nearly anything. Thank you for sharing your experiences. They help others know to try these type of things (as well as make them aware there are these options.)
Thanks for your feedback. It helps others.
Thank you so much for the shout-out and for trying to spread the word about these devices. They certainly aren’t for everyone but if you’re nearing the end of the road for pain management they may be worth looking into.
I also have a Facebook page and group devoted entirely to spinal cord stimulators if you want to check it out the link is
Stimulatorsuccess.com
Joseph of Borg
Glad to do it. Interested in the subject.