How do you prepare for a spinal cord stimulator trial?
Do not have anything to eat or drink for 6 hours prior to your scheduled trial. The trial is outpatient and you should plan on being there for 3-4 hours. You will receive an antibiotic to prevent infection. Let your TCPC provider know if you have any allergies to antibiotics.
What is the recovery time for a spinal cord stimulator trial?
What Is the Recovery Time After SCS Implantation? The recovery time after the procedure varies between 6- to 8-weeks. You may experience pain and swelling at the incision site, and in the area where the device is implanted (eg, upper buttock). These symptoms should go away after a few days.
What should you avoid with a spinal cord stimulator?
After the device is implanted, you need to avoid bending, lifting, twisting, and stretching to give the body time to heal. You can do light exercise, like walking. In fact, walking with help build physical strength for overall good health.
What are the restrictions after a spinal cord stimulator implant?
Are there any restrictions after a spinal cord stimulator implant? After both the trial and permanent surgery, try to limit physical activity. This includes exercise or any work that involves twisting, stretching, or reaching overhead. These actions can cause your stimulator leads to move away from the treatment area.
Do they put you to sleep for spinal cord stimulator trial?
This procedure is done in a hospital or ambulatory surgery setting and requires general anesthesia (being put to sleep). A small incision is made in the lower back for placement of the electrodes as described in the trial. The electrodes are secured to the ligaments and bone of the spine.
Can you use a hot tub with a spinal cord stimulator?
➢ DO NOT take a tub bath, use a Jacuzzi or Hot Tub, or go swimming until cleared by your physician (at least 6 weeks). ➢ DO NOT scrub at or apply ointments/lotions/ creams to the incision sites. ➢ DO NOT drive with your stimulator on.
Can you drive with a spinal cord stimulator trial?
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while stimulator is turned on. Coumadin and Plavix should be held for the duration of trial. Lovenox should be held 24 hours before trial and 24 hours after lead insertion.
Why can’t you drive with a spinal cord stimulator?
Additionally, driving is not recommended when your spinal cord stimulator is powered on. Although the electrical impulses are not painful, they can be distracting when driving.
Can you shower with a spinal cord stimulator?
Swimming & Bathing You may not shower, bathe or swim with a trial SCS device in, nor can you participate in any of these activities until your sutures have completely healed. After you have your permanent device implanted and your sutures are healed, you can be submerged in water safely.
Can you drink alcohol with a spinal cord stimulator?
Stop taking all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.) and blood thinners (Coumadin, aspirin, Plavix, etc.) 7 days before surgery. Stop using nicotine and drinking alcohol 1 week before and 2 weeks after surgery to avoid bleeding and healing problems.
Can you go swimming with a spinal cord stimulator?
Can you go swimming with a spinal cord stimulator? During your spinal cord stimulator trial, you may not swim, take a bath, or otherwise get your back wet. Good news, though: this is temporary. When your permanent spinal cord stimulator is in place and the sutures are healed, swimming is okay.
Can you drive with a trial stimulator?
Can you use a heating pad with a spinal cord stimulator?
Normal household equipment will not harm or interfere with the stimulator. This includes cellular or portable phones, microwaves, computers, TVs, appliances, electric blankets, and heating pads.
Can I use an electric blanket with a spinal cord stimulator?
Can I use a heating pad on my back if I have a spinal cord stimulator?