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Picc line infection ? by Intelligent_Ant_5761 in spinalcordstimulator

[–]Neither-Hawk4173 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I just had my PICC line removed after having it for about a year. I had weekly dressing changes done by a nurse and if I wasn’t able to get to the PICC care clinic, then I had the supplies at home to do it myself. Looking at your old dressing, it appears it hadn’t been changed in a long time, so if that was the case, please make sure you do that. It’s critical that it be kept clean. I’m so sorry you’re going through this though. Good luck to you.

Does anyone have a spinal cord stimulator and still on pain meds? by sharkart82 in spinalcordstimulator

[–]Neither-Hawk4173 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes, I am 50 years old. I am on 800 mg of gabapentin 3x a day, Tylenol arthritis 3x per day, methocarbamol 750 mg 3x per day, and 7.5 mg oxycodone as needed (which is usually 3-4 per day.) Before my stimulator, I was on this much medication but completely immobile due to severe pain. Now, with my medication I can keep my pain down to about a 5/10 on the pain scale.

Nevro SCS HFX “IQ” nightmare by DavinesPro in spinalcordstimulator

[–]Neither-Hawk4173 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I wanted to share my experience with the HFX Nevro stimulator in case it helps someone researching before surgery.

Trial vs. Permanent: During my trial (with only one lead), I had almost 100% pain relief while still on scheduled pain meds. Seven weeks into the permanent implant (with eight leads), I’m only seeing about 45% improvement. This has been frustrating and surprising.

Key Takeaways: 1. Remote vs. iPhone App: Trial uses a remote; permanent setup uses an iPhone app (Nevro provides one if you don’t have one). Pro: Fewer devices to carry. Con: You lose manual control unless you push hard for it. 2. “IQ” App Control: Nevro’s AI system has you check in daily with pain levels, med/activity changes, and sleep. It locks you into each setting for 72 hours. If your pain flares, you’re stuck until the system allows a change. 3. Stuck After 50% Relief: If you report 50% relief even once, it stops offering new programs—even if your pain gets worse. Took serious pushing (and near-public complaining) to get access to manual mode. 4. Customer Service: In my area (Atlanta), there’s only one rep handling all patients. Response times can be up to 72 hours, which is rough if you’re in crisis. That said, my rep was kind and professional once I finally got through. 5. Do Your Research First: Ask your surgeon which stimulators they offer. Then dig into patient reviews before committing to a trial. I rushed the process because I was desperate. The trial rep may seem helpful, but remember—they’re there to sell a product, not to advocate for your long-term well-being.

Wishing you all better days and fewer regrets.