spinal cord stimulator

7 years out with CIDP. I have 90% mobility and terrible, terrible, terrible pain in my feet and legs. I have tried everything the doc recommended. The only thing that has helped is gabapentin and opiates. I am taking methadone and oxycodone now. Now, as a last resort, the Pain Clinic at my hospital is recommending a spinal cord stimulator. I cannot believe that I haven’t heard of this until Friday.

Apparently, a device is placed under the skin and wired to locations in the spine. It generates electrical charges that interrupt or confuse the pain signals being sent to the brain. There is a 5-7 day evaluation period, where the generator is worn outside the body. If the device results in 50% or greater reduction in pain, then they go ahead and insert the generator under the skin, in the abdomen or glute area. A remote device controls the generator, and the battery is charged externally. From what I have heard, many people with this still take narcotics. Even so, with a 50% reduction in pain, that would be heaven. I am trying with all my might not to go on any level of disability. Although, I did meet with some people where I work, and the numbers are pretty good, in terms of income. But work is about much, much more than money.

Anyone have any experience, directly or indirectly, with this treatment?