I am 75 years old and had my first neurostimulator implant over 25 years ago. The battery in the implant lasts 10 years or so and I had the second unit implanted approx 13 years ago. It helped me reduce (not eliminate) the amount of opiates I take every day. I have Failed Back Syndrome and severe Scoliosis. My pain level on a good day is still about a 6 out of 10. To turn my implant on I use a BIG magnet. The implant is on my right side about where your wallet would be in your back pocket. I recharge the battery with a transdermal charging unit every 2 weeks or so. My stimulator changed my life. I still take a heavy dose of Gabapentin and Hydromorphone 3 times a day but I can still get around. I booked a 4-night and 5-day train trip across Canada for this November and I am bound and determined to make the most of that trip. This trip would not be possible without my implant. I know firsthand what you are going through and wish you the very best.

@Hand-i-Craft

Ай бұрын

Hello Rich, thank you for your comments and also sharing your story and experiences, 25 years is a long time to be living with a SCS! I was told the battery life for this unit will be 10-12 years depending on what primary setting it’s on. I still take high doses of pregabalin but made the decision a while ago to stop taking the opioid based medication, mainly due to the adverse side effects. I wish you well on your holiday, sounds like a fantastic trip 😀👍

@richmcintyre1178

Ай бұрын

@@Hand-i-Craft Thanks. I hope you can enjoy many, many pain free years.

I have had type 1 Diabetes for 54 years. About 10 years ago I started to suffer from Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy in both my feet. It has progressively gotten worse until I am never without excruciating neuropathic pain. This week I got my Nevro Spinal Cord Stimulator implanted surgically and although I’m still in recovery from the surgery and the anesthesia, even just having the stimulator set at the default setting and not even having it customized to my pain, my foot pain hasn’t woken me up once and I would say already I have a good 40% to 50% relief from pain. I’m constantly crying tears of disbelief and gratitude for this chance I’m getting to live with less pain in every step that I take. Unbelievable.

@Hand-i-Craft

3 ай бұрын

Hello Lisa, thank you for sharing your story and experiences. Really glad to hear the surgery went well and on sure there will only be further improvements once the post operative pain has settled and they start to fine tune the implant ❤️😀👍

@oldgoat50

3 ай бұрын

Good luck Lisa.

@bigbadjohnpesek9894

3 ай бұрын

I just had the trial nevro stimulator removed and now waiting to get the permanent one. After three failed back surgeries I haven't been able to walk upright. I can't sleep at night the pain wakes me up. I have no life. But the trial was successful. I felt like i had my old life back.

@Hand-i-Craft

3 ай бұрын

@@bigbadjohnpesek9894 Good to hear and I wish you well for your permanent implant. I hear you about the pain and how it affects every aspect of your life. Lack of sleep has a terrible effect on you both physically and mentally

@bigbadjohnpesek9894

3 ай бұрын

@@Hand-i-Craft yes it does. I can barely think straight. I know its taking a terrible toll on my wife to. I just have to stick it out for one more month then I can have my old life back.

I have had my scs 2 years now for lower back and leg nerve pain, it did take some time to get the setting right for me. Been a life changer.

@Hand-i-Craft

3 ай бұрын

Good to hear Lynn. Yes I believe it can take over a year to fine tune the implant. Thank you for sharing your experience 😀👍

Hi Leo. Glad to see you up and about my friend. I for one think that this should be part of this channel. This channel is about you, your woodworking and what caused you to get into this world of KZread. As such I think that those of us who have been with you for this journey want to know if and how the surgery is helping you. Keep going matey.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Cheers Gaz for the feedback pal, really does help me with planning future stuff in mind ❤️😀👍

@laurasrn5067

Жыл бұрын

Agreed! I couldn't have said it any better 😊

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

@@laurasrn5067 Thanks Laura❤️😀👍

This is the type of video that could potentially help people for years to come so i think it absolutely should be included on your channel Keep up the great work 👌🏽

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Chris, very kind of you😀👍

Thank you. Am anxious😷 Am about to do trial. Thinking Fentynal patch is starting to sound good !

@Hand-i-Craft

7 ай бұрын

Good luck with the trial, I hope all goes well for you 😀👍

@CrazyMaryJo

7 ай бұрын

@@Hand-i-Craft A considering getting a second opinion !

I've had sjogrens syndrome rare auto immune disease , I've done the trial and got the permanent implant today. The amount of pain relief is astronomical, the trial only gives pain because it's external. Great idea to get this procedure , relieve pain at the waist , pins and needles bottom of feet , stomach & leg cramps virtually eliminated. You get small twitches where cramps would start and somehow it resolves before the discomfort starts.

@Hand-i-Craft

10 ай бұрын

Thanks for the message and sharing your experiences of SCS surgery. Best wishes, Leo 😀👍

Having my spinal stimulator installed this morning 🌄

@Hand-i-Craft

10 ай бұрын

Good luck Paul, keep me posted 👍👍

Leo, so glad, the surgery went well. I think it's great, that you share your journey and it certainly makes your channel, more unique and interesting. Stay well and take the time to recover.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks John and yes will be taking things easy for a while 😀😀👍👍

A fantastic insight into pain management and the new technology , Leo. All the best with the implant programme. Truly inspirational.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thank you for such a kind comment, much appreciated ❤️😀👍

Hi Leo. You’re an absolute inspiration mate. Hope you get the relief you’re looking for. And please keep this content coming on here 👍 Rob

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Very kind of you Rob and thank you 😀👍

As usual a great video. A yes from me. It’s part of you, your story started with the after effects of the car accident so yes please carry on with the story. Get well soon.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks David, take care pal 😀👍

Hey Leo, this sounds like it could be a real life-changer. Others here have said it far more eloquently, but I think that something as important as this is in your life, should be shared. I'm crossing everything for it to make a real difference. You've always inspired me to carry on, and you continue to do so. Thank you for sharing this with us.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

So kind of you Mandy and thank you once again. It felt right to share it as it is so important to me and hopefully an integral part of improving the quality of my life going forward. 🤞I’ll start to feel the full benefits in the coming weeks 😀👍

Definitely interested in how you're progressing. You achieve so much despite the chronic pain and the loss of use of your hand. I hope you get significant relief soon.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks John, very kind of you sir and cheers for the kind message 😀👍

Good to see you back Leo. Hope the recovery goes well. Cheers mate

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Alastair, as always much appreciated pal 😀😀👍👍

Thank God for all the brilliantly clever people in this world. The inventions, the thinking so far outside the box and the drive and dedication of them. I hope all goes well for you Leo. All the very best of health to you. ❤

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

The advances in medical technology has just been incredible over the last few years pal and let’s hope it continues to do so. Cheers for the message Stephen 😀😀👍👍

Love hearing from you in woodworking or what ever you want to talk about. Take care

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Dean, much appreciated ❤️😀👍

This came up randomly on my feed, as many months ago I investigated the option of an implant for my chronic pain. This is by far the best testimonial I've watched. Thank you so much for your honesty! Looking forward to finding future updates you may have given in the meantime!

@Hand-i-Craft

6 ай бұрын

Thank you for the kind feedback, much appreciated 😀😀👍👍

I had this surgery performed about 2 1/2 years ago here in the US. It completely changed my life. I had to consult with a psychiatrist beforehand. The reason for this is because they want you to understand that the procedure is not going to completely alleviate the pain and if you don’t understand this mentally it can tear you up. You were right, the first week is extremely painful but it only lasts a week and it pretty much goes away. The benefits are worth the early problems. I found one program that works for me and there are days I never touch the controller. On really bad days I crank it up for a little while. You’re right, it’s not for everyone but for me it was a miracle cure.

@Hand-i-Craft

10 ай бұрын

Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences here and I am glad that the SCS is providing you with some pain relief. You’re absolutely right about the processes you go through before being considered for an SCS. For me here in the U.K. it was 3 years including pain management programmes, sessions with psychologists, trial procedures etc. It’s vital to advocate that this isn’t a cure for pain, but I am extremely grateful that it has helped with pain relief as I was in a terrible place beforehand

@island_Dave_KeyWest

10 ай бұрын

@jhe001 May I ask if you had the stimulator in the c-spine or for your lower back? I’ve had failed surgeries and live with chronic pain and spasms in both. My neurologist told me the only stimulators are for the lumbar and nothing available for the c-spine. I’m wondering if I need to put my implant on hold and seek out another specialist. Or make a trip to Liverpool.

I am considering a spinal stimulator and your video is comforting, really. Definitely informative. And your humor and explanations are much appreciated.

@Hand-i-Craft

7 ай бұрын

Thank you for the kind message which is much appreciated. Best wishes, Leo 😀👍

Hi Leo, very pleased to hear the immediate post op pain is abating and you are starting to move on to the 'trial phase' of using the stimulator. I hope you find the optimum balance of frequency and strength of the stimulation soon and that it is at least as good as your trial system. Onwards and upwards. Mike

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Mike. I think they bring the initial level in under the level I was gaining the most benefit from in order to build up to that so it doesn’t cause any overwhelming effects initially. Hopefully in the coming weeks I will start to feel the full benefit of the implant 🤞🤞😀😀👍👍

Best of luck going forward. Thank you for sharing!

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Cheers James 👍

For me, absolutely should be here. The community you're part of is genuinely interested and if anyone isn't they can skip to the next video. As a retired teacher I also think you judge the balance of what you share just right.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Ben and it’s great to get some feedback from a former teacher as you’ll know exactly what I mean in relation to what I can and can’t say. With this one being so personal I think I’ve just managed to keep it ok 👍. Take care pal and cheers for the feedback 😀😀👍👍

Great update Leo, I have spinal stenosis in l4 and l5 and the deferred pain I get in my shoulder is sometimes worse than my back pain... Glad you are on the pathway to pain relive

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Jigsey for the message pal 😀😀👍👍

This video helped me be less stressed about my stim trial tomorrow plus I love wood working win win thank you

@Hand-i-Craft

7 ай бұрын

Thank you and good luck with the trial 😀👍

Dear Leo...thank you thank you for posting this info. My sister is about to undergo the trial and she's a little anxious about the whole process. However, it was great hearing about your on the ground experience.

@Hand-i-Craft

Ай бұрын

Thank you for your kind comment and please pass on my best wishes to your sister in her upcoming trial 🙏😀👍

very interesting Leo, Stay strong ( easier said i know) as you know watching your videos helped with my recovery from major surgery and gave me the confidence to push through my issues.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Bill, very kind of you to say and I remember your Facebook posts post surgery recovery very well. I loved the way you celebrated every small achievement like a haircut or a small walk, really helped with the positivity 😀😀😀👍👍👍

Stay healthy. All my best wishes goes towards you.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much ❤️👍

Leo, please keep us all updated on your journey. I will be getting my final mri to make sure there is enough room in my back to insert the leads. I have been suffering with this chronic pain for the last ten years. I had microdiscectomy surgery that failed and have moved on to finally getting my spinal chord stimulator transplanted. I can’t wait for it. I so enjoyed your honest video and look forward to frequent updates. Thanks so much. Candace in the USA

@Hand-i-Craft

10 ай бұрын

Thank you for your very kind and thoughtful comments here Candace and I hope the SCS brings you the pain relief you need. Best wishes from Liverpool, Leo ❤️😀👍

@sallyanngrant1179

4 ай бұрын

Candice, did it work? Starting looking at this for myself. 25 years of chronic pain.

Since you ask, my feedback... and maybe a feeling I am sure a lot of others will echo, we admire you massively as you overcome you challenges from the accident. It isn't a gawkish thing, you are a decent guy and I just really want to see you doing well. So yes, feel free to tell us what you want to share and I for one will continue to be inspired and amazed by your grit to improve your health and your life going forward... plus of course the amazing skills you demonstrate on your projects. I wish you the absolute best - who knows, medical science moves on and there may be things to add in the future to help you in ways we cannot imagine. All power to you Leo, be yourself, share what you want and you certainly have my support for anything you choose to put out.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Kev and very kind of you to give such honest feedback which I’ll definitely take on board. It is truly incredible how technology has advanced the study of neurology and how I have been fortunate enough to benefit from it. And thank you for your very kind words and support ❤️😀👍

Wishing you well and hope this gives you a major improvement to your future life

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Derek, hopefully the full benefits will start to kick in in the coming weeks 🤞😀👍

Hi Leo Great Video! Please do keep us updated on your journey in your search for a less pain life. I'm sure it will help you as well as possible countless others... A clear title is all that's needed if folk want to skip the personal. Good luck, and best wishes 👍🏼🍻

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Elle for your very kind feedback, and yes great idea about title clarity which will let folk decide for themselves whether they want to view it or not 👍👍👍

Thanks for sharing your accident recovery journey!

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thank you ❤️😀👍

Thanks Leo for sharing. I am feeling better about taking those first steps.

@Hand-i-Craft

3 ай бұрын

Good to hear John and best of luck for you moving forward 👍👍

Like all my favourite channels it is the people that make you stick around so hearing more about your health becomes welcome information. All the best to you and yours.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks very much for your really kind comment, much appreciated 😀👍

I stumbled across your stimulator video. My doctors are recommending this. I'm still in the research phase. Thank you for the information. Blessings!

@Hand-i-Craft

10 ай бұрын

Thank you for your kind comments Carolyn and good luck with the research. Best wishes, Leo 😀👍

Hi Leo, wishing you all the best and hoping the device is soon assisting with your pain management.🙏🏻👍🏻

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Kevin for your very kind comment pal ❤️😀👍

It absolutely should be part of your channel. with everything that happened to you, to come back and build a youtube channel with 11k subs (and will grow) is brilliant! there are not many that could do that. i'm a long time sub and have watched your journey, peter millard suggesting we subscribe. I for one don't regret it ! your're good at this! most of us know your history and would appreciate regular up dates on how things are going. I really hope the implant works for you. all the best mate.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Nice one, thank you so much for your very kind comments here, as ever much appreciated 😀😀👍👍

Hi Leo glad to hear ur recovery is going well. Absolutely brilliant video ! I personally have no issues with ur content in ur videos. I think it’s as much you as the projects u are doing what I find interesting ( hope that doesn’t come across wrong 😂) I too have a few health issues so it’s nice to get other peoples perspective

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Adam, very kind of you pal and I hope you get the correct course of treatment and care for your needs. I follow your stuff on social media so keep celebrating every achievement, no matter how small 😀😀👍👍

Hi Leo, came for roofing vids, really helpful informative stuff, i hope the op is successful in the long run, you are one of those people helping others and inspiring them in a way the rest of us should be but are not. I will scour your next videos and complain about something to balance this post out a bit .....;-) Keep up the vids please. Thank you!

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Joe, very kind of you sir and much appreciated 😀😀👍👍

All the best. Hope things improve well for you.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Cheers Mike 👍😀

Fine sir I hope thou gets well better soon.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thank you, very kind of you ❤️👍

I've just been placed on the SCS pathway at Leeds General Infirmary. Great video and very imformative. Wishing you all the best for the future and hope the SCS really helps.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thank you. I’m happy to try and answer any questions (from a patient’s perspective) you might have if you ever want to get in touch 😀👍

Hand I Craft? More like Hand I Phone! Great to see you up and about and I really hope this is what you need to help you with your pain. All the very best to you and keep us updated with how things progress.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

😂😂😂. Thanks Paul, maybe I need to trademark the Hand-I-phone but maybe Apple might have something to say about it🤔😂. Cheers for the feedback and something I’ll definitely be taking on board 😀👍

I am being referred for this and this has helped me no end thank you

@Hand-i-Craft

Ай бұрын

Thank you for your kind comment and the best of luck moving forward 😀👍

Hello Leo. Good to see you back in the workshop. Hope you get the benefit from this my friend. Take care.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Anthony 😀😀👍👍

Leo I loved your video. I just got my permanent SCS two weeks ago and am loving it. Mine is neuropathy in feet and legs ans so far it is helping tremendously. Your video is definitely valuable to those who are considering a SCS. My SCS is also a Nevro HFX and I’m bin the United States.

@Hand-i-Craft

8 ай бұрын

Hello Doreen, thanks for your kind message and I’m glad to hear you are feeling the benefit of the implant. Early days for you as well so hopefully scope for further improvement🤞🤞. Best wishes, Leo 😀😀👍👍

I am so glad to have come across your channel. I’m scheduled to have the permanent spinal cord stimulator in 3 weeks. I’ve been searching KZread for as much information I can find. My trial went well, but am dealing with some anxiety about the permanent implant. Mine is going to be for my low back. I’ve had laminectomy from L-1 to L-5. Unfortunately it’s left me in constant pain. I’ve also had 2 fusions and a vertabrectomy in my c-spine. (All from genetics 🧬) I inquired about a c-spine stimulator as well but was told it’s only available for lumbar. Now I’m wondering if I need to make a trip from the US and see what I can find. You’ve given me some hope I’d not had. And you are quite an inspiration. Thank you for sharing your experience. Wishing you continued success and as much decreased pain levels as possible!

@Hand-i-Craft

10 ай бұрын

Hello Dave, thank you for the very kind words here which is much appreciated. Good luck with your permanent implant and I hope it brings you the pain relief you are looking for. I can’t really comment in relation to what types of surgeries are done here, apart from my own experience. The implant nodes for me are placed around my C2 vertebrae which is targeted to help reduce the nerve pain in the heart of my right shoulder. The device is attached to the underside of my rib cage on the left and the leads to the implant are tunnelled somehow inside me up to my upper neck. I know Dr Sharma is considered to be a leading consultant in this field and maybe this type of surgery will only be carried out by certain consultants 🤷‍♂️. I don’t know that as fact Dave, just pure speculation. I’d be interested to hear how your permanent implant goes once everything settles down 👍👍

Really wish you all the best. Hope this really works for you.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thank you for your kind comment ❤️👍

Welcome to the world of the cyborg, I joined last year when I had an ICD (pacemaker) fitted ... love the fact that you need to charge yourself ... I need to have surgery every 7-10 years to put a new device in. The fact you are able to feel the lump is a little disconcerting at first, and you'll always feel it (as I do with my ICD) but you soon get to a point where you almost forget it is there. Doesn't really matter what type of pain you are in, pain is pain and the longer it goes on the more detrimental it is to your physical and mental health. I've had nerve pain after having a toe amputated and severe pain from cellulitis in my legs, but this was for say a week in total for each ... the thought of having any type of pain for such a long period of time is for me unimaginable. With regards what you show on your channel, that's your choice and not anyone else ... not interested then don't watch ... to me and others by the looks of it, we are invested not only in your channel but in you as well, you are like a distant friend. Looking forward to hearing that the stimulator works out well for you, it'll be another life changing point in your life 👍

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Barry for all the feedback and also sharing your own experiences here as well. Take care pal 😀😀👍👍

Good to hear your on the mend Leo, fingers crossed for you that they can find the right frequency to eliminate some of your pain, time is a healer you take all the time you need we will still be looking out for your vids and your health I'm a bit gutted you aint got a USB C port somewhere to plug yourself into the mains, but hey ho, take care of yourself 👍

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

😂😂😂. Thanks Pistol, I’ll take the charging up by wireless power pack instead of the direct USB post thanks 😂😂😂

I've got CRPS just got the phone call on Thursday, I get my op on the 3rd Oct. I'm praying it changes my life.

@Hand-i-Craft

10 ай бұрын

Good luck Deb and I hope the surgery helps with the pain relief you’re looking for ❤️😀👍

@annetteedel8229

8 ай бұрын

Please let us know how it’s going!

Hi I’ve just come across your page and am currently going through the process of being trailed for the scs , I’ve been looking and reading up so much about it ,but you have explained it better than all of those I’ve watched and have put my mind at ease about trailing it. I’ve been waiting over 11 months now from my visit of speaking to the psychiatrist where am due now to go see the nurses who I think will be talking about the stimulator (hopefully) I was wondering how long after seeing the nurse did the rest of the follow up go to day you had it fitted. I too have nerve damage and dystonia which am fully aware the damage of nerve will never come back but if I can get just a percentage less of pain then I will be forever grateful . Thank you for this video you have given me the confidence of going forward . Good luck in your recovery and I will definitely be watching your progress here 🙏

@Hand-i-Craft

10 ай бұрын

Thank you for your very kind message Mandi. From memory with my experience at the Walton Centre, the trial surgery was not long after my visit to the nurses who talked me through the whole thing and answered the many questions I had! Maybe a couple of weeks inbetween the two. I wish you well and please let me know how you get on, sending positive thoughts 😀👍

As always, informative, inspiring and brave. Love from Lithuania matey. Deano

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Deano, wow, great to hear from you my friend. It’s been far too long. I hope you and your family are keeping well pal ❤️❤️😀😀👍👍

@jurgsmob1

Жыл бұрын

@Hand-i-Craft Been following you for a while now. Truly inspiring stuff you're creating. All good here - 2 grown up kids. Jurga sends love. Keep up the fantastic work.

Thank you for sharing your journey. I am awaiting a SCS to be fitted next year. I am hoping I can get all or at least some pain relief when it is fitted.

@Hand-i-Craft

9 ай бұрын

Thanks for the message Dave and good luck with the SCS surgery. I hope you get some relief from the chronic pain 👍👍😀😀

Hello Leo sir I’m taking my hat off to you well done and I wish you all the best in the future I came across your videos for sip roofing which I say was a great help l must admit I was laughing when you first started to charge your battery and your good lady was laughing as well l my self have just had a prostate operation after having a catheter in for over a year and I did go to work and boy sometimes I had some bad pain but I can relate my situation to your pain please keep us updated on your health and as a joiner I think you are doing dam good keep going Leo 😊👍

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Simon for your very kind comments and also sharing your own experiences. Best wishes to you sir, Leo 😀😀👍👍

Thanks Leo, Great insight into your perseverance and determination. As a fellow Brachial Plexus Injury or Monoplegic as I like to say, the chronic pain aspect is sometimes unimaginable for people we meet. I figure the more people like yourself explaining it openly will help others understand the hidden disability of chronic pain. I will reach out to you soon about the long term benefits of your implant to consider it myself. Until then, we have our woodworking KZread channels to keep us active and distracted. Take care my friend and talk soon. James

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks James, it is almost impossible to explain chronic pain to folk, but when you meet a fellow sufferer words aren’t even needed. It will be interesting to see how things progress in the coming weeks and hopefully I will start to feel the full benefits of the implant 🤞😀👍

Leo, great job on the video. Outstanding explanation of what a spinal cord stimulator (SCS) is and what it does and doesn’t do. After 2 years of physical therapy, traditional and non traditional drug therapy, lumbar steroid injections and other pain management procedures, my insurance approved the procedure. In October 2023, I had the trial procedure and within one week, I opted for a permanent implant. It’s only a few weeks but so far, so good. The best takeaway from your video is the fact that candidates have to maintain tempered expectations as to the level of pain reduction. . The SCS is not a panacea for pain. As you pointed out, it is device that allows many to regain their physical and mental ability to live a somewhat normal life. One final point, this is YOUR channel and there is no need to apologize to subscribers who don’t necessarily have interest in your physical and mental health journey. I look forward to seeing updates.

@Hand-i-Craft

7 ай бұрын

Thanks Christopher for your very kind message. I wish you all the best with your SCS journey and I’ll be keeping folk updated with mine on the channel. Best wishes for Christmas and the new year, Leo 😀👍

Hi Leo, I suffer with fibromyalgia and ostioarthritis so I know what you mean about nerve and permenant pain. It's a bloody nusance and i'm glad you have found a solution to reduce your pain. All the best, Stuart.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Stuart, yes chronic pain is almost impossible to explain, but when you meet someone who also suffers, no words are needed❤️👍

@rosettaknight6653

9 ай бұрын

Hello I also have fibromyalgia and lupus and so much more going on hope all is well I’m about to have this procedure done as well GOD bless

@JackiePena1970

5 ай бұрын

@@rosettaknight6653 I have both also. I have the trial stimulator now, and going on Monday to gets the leads removed. Wow what a difference! How did yours go?

@marleneholloway7775

3 ай бұрын

With fibromyalgia some people have 3 to 4 times pain than others. So it makes every other pain worse. I'm dealing with that, not all drs understand..

This was very helpful. I just got my trial scs today. I would love updates. Thank you

@Hand-i-Craft

10 ай бұрын

Thanks for the message Melinda and I hope the trial is successful for you 😀😀👍👍

Thank you for putting this video out. I am in the process of getting the trial started and am looking for all the information I can get. 3 back surgeries and the last one was horrible and now I am in pain pretty much all the time and am getting tired of taking meds all the time.

@Hand-i-Craft

2 ай бұрын

Thank you for the kind comment, best of luck with the trial and I hope you get the pain relief soon 👍👍

@bigbadjohnpesek9894

2 ай бұрын

I was in the same shape as you. 3 failed back surgeries. Did the trial and it worked great. Just had the permanent one put in last week. Once my wife and I figured out the settings it works fantastic. Now the only pain I feel is from the staples in my back. And those are coming out this week. Good luck to you.

work for Nevro here in the US, thank you for sharing your story and journey!!!

@Hand-i-Craft

10 ай бұрын

Thank you Patrick 😀👍

@bigbadjohnpesek9894

3 ай бұрын

I cant wait to get my nevro implant. The trial for me was a success. After three years of excruciating pain the nevro unit reduced my pain by about 80% .

Thanks. I have been on this journey since 2012

@Hand-i-Craft

Ай бұрын

Wow, a long time indeed. I hope it brings you the pain relief you sought after 😀👍

Thank you for sharing Leo. I loved this video. It's great to see what makes people human and what drives them. Buzzing for you that your on the up. Never forget this is a maker channel. And this is what makes you. Never apologise for being you.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Paul, much appreciated pal 😀👍

Great video and great to see you in your natural habitat. I can just hear the conversation if Pam is asking you to set the table for dinner "sorry love, I'm just on charge"

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Dave, as for the dinner table scenario, well ahead of you on that one 😂😂

Thankyou for sharing

@Hand-i-Craft

2 ай бұрын

You’re welcome 😀👍

Hi Leo. Inspiring story. After waiting three years for treatment with the NHS I was sick and tired of them cancelling my operation date, I have been told it could be another two years. I have at my cost made an appointment with a private hospital and see a surgeon next week. I have been suffering since 1998 I had a very complicated knee re-construction in London. I developed a severe infection which nearly killed me. I could not see any leakage as I was in a plaster cast. On arriving at hospital I was taken straight into surgery to have everything cleaned out. I ended up in hospital a further two times with infections. I found out from the pain team that nerves and infection are not good and the main nerve up my leg is very sensitive. After watching your video, you have given me a great deal of confidence and I now know what will be ahead of me. Thank you so much for sharing your story and good luck for the future.

@Hand-i-Craft

6 ай бұрын

Hello Pat, thank you for the message and also sharing your story. So sorry to hear what happened and the returning infections must have been horrendous for you. As I said in this video the type of surgery I underwent isn’t for everyone, but it certainly has helped me in reducing chronic nerve pain. I wish you well on your journey and hope you find a solution to your chronic pain issues 👍

Hi Leo I’m currently on this same adventure. I’ve had the temporary one and the permanent one. Mine has flipped twice and had to be corrected surgically and has just recently been removed due to being faulty and giving me constant shocks. When they removed it they found that the leads had disconnected somehow and I had an infection in the pocket site. I’m recovering from my recent surgery and in two weeks I will be going back to theatre to have a new one implanted. Mine is for bowel In continence. It does work well when it’s working. All the best. I’ll keep you updated 🤗

@Hand-i-Craft

8 ай бұрын

Thanks Annie for your open and honest experiences with the SCS. Sorry to hear about the complications you’ve suffered and I hope the next stage works out well for you. Best wishes, Leo 😀👍

Glad its working out for your Leo. Your charger looks so much more comfy than mine, feel like I've got a block of wood strapped to my back 😂

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

It’s taking a bit of getting used to pal but I’m getting there slowly!

@woodencraftsofquatt23

Жыл бұрын

@@Hand-i-Craft it's a weird sensation having it your back and feeling the wire when you move your neck. It will settle soon enough and you'll forgot its there.

Found this video while looking for testimonials that aren't just ads for all of the biotech companies 😆 I had a trial stimulator in August and it gave me 100% relief from the pain I've had for 6 years in my right hand/arm. It's given me so much hope and I have my surgery on the 12th. It's going to be a struggle but I just have to get my Arnie quotes in order and correct people on being a robot. "Cybernetic Organism". Cheers for sharing! I'm going with the Saluda closed loop SCS and will be sure to share my experience when insurance everything is over with so it won't cause any issues.

@Hand-i-Craft

6 ай бұрын

Thanks for the kind comment here which is much appreciated! Good luck with the full surgery and I hope it goes well for you👍

Hope it all works out for you Leo and thanks for the honest video I am suffering from ideopathic sensory neuropathy for about 10 years but feet and legs are affected It is progressing in pain intensity all day everyday Yes continual non stop pain is now really wearing me out mentally and physically so I hope to get a trial started soon I have heard about the Nevro which says can give up to 80% relief Like you I would settle for 50% if it works Best of luck to you going forward and thanks for information

@Hand-i-Craft

11 ай бұрын

I hear you pal in regards to the constant pain and how it affects every aspect of everything in your life. I hope you get the treatment you need soon and have a good support network around you. I’d be interested to hear from you if you do go for the trial and how it worked out. Best wishes, Leo 😀👍

Nice one - John Hopkins Institute provides one perspective, you just as valuable, provide another. All the best - Mike

@Hand-i-Craft

9 ай бұрын

Thanks Mike, appreciate the feedback. Best wishes, Leo

Hi Leo,Thanks for sharing this moment with us. For what you are going through I can not think what you are feeling ,it must be nerve racking .But you are being treated in the best place. The Walton centre in Liverpool it is a good hospital I know that.the surgery is the best. I was there last Thursday with my son ,he has spina bifida and hydrocephalus he got head pains at the moment .he has had 22 operations so far and hes only 21.he dose use a wheel chair and regestered disabled .In his early years all his surgery was done in Alder hay children's hospital in Liverpool that is a good hospital 20 of them were there.I'm glad it's not to far away 40-50 mins/ about 37 miles away from Wrexham I wish you well you deserve all the luck in the world mate and look after your self and see you soon Take care😀❤👍

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Shaun and cheers for sharing your family experiences at the Walton Centre. It is a fantastic place and we are lucky to have it in our locality. I hope your son continues to get the best treatment possible for his condition ❤️👍. Best wishes pal, Leo 😀👍

Thanks

@Hand-i-Craft

Ай бұрын

You’re welcome 😀👍

I'm in the usa, I had an abbots stimulator installed about 2 1/2 weeks ago after 3 surgeries and a fusion and could no longer deal with the pain. I already have relief. I was a competitive lifter for over 20 years and it destroyed my back. I hope you are much better now bud. Thanks for sharing the journey. Unfortunately, I have a pi ched nerve in my neck that no docs can find the source however mri indicates that I do not need surgery so I requested a nerve stimulation test so I can have a nerve ablation on the correct area. The first ablation did nothing at all. 😢

@Hand-i-Craft

6 ай бұрын

Thanks for the message and also sharing your experiences. I’m glad you are experiencing some relief from the pain, I can only imagine the effects of power lifting on the body! I hope you manage to get your nerve issue sorted in your neck soon👍

Keep us updated every few months please. 😊

@Hand-i-Craft

11 ай бұрын

Will do and thank you for the supportive comments, much appreciated❤️😀👍

I found your video very helpful as I was involved in a car crash in 2001 in which I had multiple injuries & was lucky to survive. I also lost the use of my right arm & was left with chronic pain from the damage to my brachial plexus nerves. Over the years I was on strong medication which my body got too used to so it stopped working as well. I reduced all these drugs as they weren’t working & they made me spaced out. I’ve tried everything including infusions of lidocaine & ketamine unsuccessfully. The pain has got worse over the years & completely debilitated my life. I was so much more active 10 years ago but the lack of sleep & constant pain has made me lethargic & depressed. I’m about to try the spinal cord stimulator & have just had the initial mri so we will see. I’m very slender so am a bit worried about where it will go. Wish me luck as there’s no other option open to me.

@Hand-i-Craft

8 ай бұрын

Thanks for the message here and I can totally relate to all of the content. I too had to wean myself off strong opioid medication as the side effects of the meds made me a walking zombie. I don’t want to give false hope to people as the surgery I went through isn’t for everyone, but I am grateful that I’ve been able to experience some sustained pain relief from the SCS procedure 👍👍. Wish you the best of luck with your upcoming treatment 😀👍

👍👍👍Thanks Leo

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Cheers Pete 😀😀👍👍

Hi Leo, you're kind of my mirror image. I had traumatic brachial plexus injury on my left side (motorbike accident 15yrs ago) fully avulsed nerve root C5 with partial C6. Where we differ slightly due to subluxation of my shoulder I had my arm amputated above elbow & shoulder fusion. All encompassing chronic pain & pain spasms have meant I have tried every possible prescription medication. I was placed on a week long trial of spinal cord stimulation (battery & processor outside my body) at the QMC in Nottingham but found unless the stimulation was on one of its highest settings I had no respite from the pain & so for me the trial was not a success. I stumbled on your channel looking for shed building techniques. I was amazed, here was a man in a similar position to me (I didnt know your story at the time) who was building his own shed......practically alone. Though your channel I have learnt a fair bit about sheds, woodworking & other ways of living with chronic pain. Your channel has lifted me on some of my real bad days where all I wanted to do was sit in a corner & encouraged me to go out & try woodworking for myself (I was a fabricator in a previous life so making things was well my thing) with varying degrees of success & some epic fails. We love your channel because it is about you along with your journey in all things wooden. Please share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with on this channel, your subscribers understand & for those that don't I know a few two word phrases to use. I hope spinal cord stimulation really helps you, I really do, its hard to describe to 'normal' people just how debilitating this chronic & spasmodic pain really is, so any relief you can get would be brilliant. Sorry this is an almost biblical length comment, just wanted to say thank you & keep on healing. Wish you all the very best. Neil.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Neil, thank you so much for taking the time to share your experiences in this comment. It is so hard to explain to folk about the debilitating effects of chronic pain so when you meet or speak to someone who lives with it, no words are needed. I hope you continue to enjoy your woodworking adventures and if there is anything I can do to help then please let me know 😀😀👍👍

@GloryDaze73

11 ай бұрын

Normal people will never understand what its like... Just remember... You're not alone. All over the world, mostly in silence, many people share the journey of chronic pain. Keep strong and keep shining your light. 🤗

@aislingbenson9922

5 ай бұрын

Neil, I’m right there with you. I too had a brachial plexus injury (C5 & C6 avulsion)., resulting in a paralyzed dominant arm. The loss of the use of your arm is easier to get over than the chronic neurological pain you’re left with. I am still searching for ways to reduce the pain and so far the only thing I find that helps just a little, is distraction, so finding a creative outlet is brilliant.

That was great content Leo. Hope the stimulator works out well for you. Qi charging yourself sounds a bit ‘in the year 2525….’

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

😂😂😂, yes it is all a bit surreal pal with charging myself up. Cheers for the message 😀👍

Nice one Leo - although I definitely may call you Neo from the matrix moving forward lol Ironically I’m watching this at midnight from a hospital bed where apparently they’ve run out of pillows so that’s nice! They definitely need to use the Apple MagSafe charging idea with magnets, that would be cool 😁 Keep on keeping on buddy, I firmly believe sharing stuff like this is good for everyone. Also, your techniques for doing stuff one handed would make a great video, not just for the single handed but for arthritis people almost a plethora of others

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Dean. I saw your post last night and sorry to hear you’re in hospital. I had the same issue, one paper thin pillow and I had two rather large scars on my back and they couldn’t find me another. Pam very kindly brought one in for me. Hope you’re feeling better pal and can be home soon 🤞😀👍

I’ve been booked after years of wait for this ,,,, awfull spine pain affecting my left leg ,,, mmm first cancelled as covid hit ,, then a couple weeks ago gowned up , hospital bed ,, cancelled sent home ,,, a week later ,,, gowned up ,,, seems machine broken ? Sent home yet again Taxi ,,,, I live alone ,,, was a fit 50 year old lady . but these years of waiting ,,, I don’t know how I got through last cancelation ,,,I’m 66 now and struggling alone . Thank you for posting this ,,,, ❤

@Hand-i-Craft

6 ай бұрын

Hello Susan, I’m sorry to hear about your situation. I feel your frustration as my surgery was postponed on three occasions, you physically and mentally prepare yourself and then the goalposts are shifted. I hope your surgery goes ahead soon and you get the pain relief you’re looking for. Best wishes, Leo

Best of luck to you and I hope it helps you. I am suffering with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome for 15 years now. A spinal cord stimulator was suggested but I am not sure I want to go down that road.

@Hand-i-Craft

9 ай бұрын

Thanks for the message, as I said this isn’t for everyone but thankfully for me it had benefited my condition 👍👍

@annetteedel8229

8 ай бұрын

My son also has CRPS now for almost 30 years. The same as you feel…not to sure about it. I’ve read about both good and bad. It’s a big decision. Good luck!

@rubydarlene

8 ай бұрын

Mine stim was implanted in 2014....psych guy told me it s like turning on the radio so you do not hear the engine...mine was a fail and resulted in the scars merging with 30 year old scar and has created even more issues..I had it all removed after 3 months...i completely understand constant chronic pain but do not recommend it... keep in mind that the battery may last 10 years but will have to be changed...meaning cutting in the same place... I m happy for anyone that believes it helps but I would not recommend..:)

@Hand-i-Craft

8 ай бұрын

@@rubydarlene Thanks for the message Ruby and I think the comments section here is very important for folk to hear a variety of views on the topic. I can only speak of my experiences but am happy for this to facilitate other experiences, be that positive or negative

My SCS trial scheduled Oct31, 2023. I'm tired of living with pills and pain.

@Hand-i-Craft

9 ай бұрын

I hope you manage to get some pain relief from the trial and then set up for the full implant 👍👍

@git-er-dun_LBK_

9 ай бұрын

@@Hand-i-Craft thanks a bunch. I already had 2 back surgery and both hips replaced. At 72 y/o i am determined to give my best effort to live relatively pain free.

An excellent informative video An eye opener for anyone with your type of injury showing there is possible light at the end of the tunnel Yes please give further updates as things progress All the best for the future

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Alan for the kind comments and feedback, much appreciated pal 😀😀👍👍

Nerve pain is very debilitating I got short term relief from a SCS back stimulator but SADLY that was only a couple months for me but I am now ANXIOUSLY awaiting a Burst stimulator different from the SCS unit that is going to give us more coverage and be more beneficial for me so take it from me DO NOT GIVE UP

@Hand-i-Craft

3 күн бұрын

@@joanminske2498 Totally agree about the effects of chronic nerve pain, I hope the new device brings you the benefit of pain reduction 🙏❤️👍

Hope the pain gets less take care look after yourself 👍

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Cheers Mick 👍👍

I understand I’ve been suffering over 10 years I have two in my body one back and other neck I’m having one battery replaced Tuesday, July 16, 2024 on the one with the batteries not working. I’ve been in so much pain meds don’t work so it is a big help but it takes time. I know they give a couple day trial. But you don’t get enough time to see how it really really works, I was in a car accident walking with a cane bend over soon as they put the implant in my back stood up off the table and never look back. It works. It definitely works. Have to do walking a little exercise. Keep your weight off and it helps quite a bit, still have moments as severe pain, but normally be controlled with pain management, but it affects your life your mental health. Your job totally permanently disabled. Her on the job is a police officer. God bless and feel better, buddy.

@Hand-i-Craft

10 күн бұрын

Thank you for sharing your experiences and kind words which is very much appreciated 😀. Hope the battery replacement was a success 🤞😀👍

I had a right side brachial plexus avulsion from a horrible snowmobile accident. My pain is ruthless.

@Hand-i-Craft

10 ай бұрын

Horrible nerve injury to suffer Brian. I hope you manage to find some form of pain relief

Glad to hear you’re fairing well! Curious to know if you ever had Epidural Steroid Injections prior to the stimulator implant? I unfortunately didn’t have much luck with my stimulator implant. Sadly the electro sensor pad shifted and lost its effectiveness… had it removed.

@Hand-i-Craft

10 ай бұрын

Thank you for the message and no it was never mentioned about epidural steroid injections. I’m sorry to hear your experience with an SCS wasn’t a success and I hope the medical people can help in some other way to assist in pain relief for you 😀👍

I know how you feel with the pain. Pain does change you a lot I have an aggressive form of rheumatoid arthritis which leaves me in pain 24/7. Had 2 small strokes and suffer with mental issues since covid. I’m on 190mg of morphine a day. I’m glad you’re ok and doing or trying woodwork. I’m trying to do same.

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

Hello Steve, cheers for the message and I’m sorry to hear about your situation pal. That is a serious amount of morphine and you also have to live with the side effects of that as well. I hope when you are able to do a few bits and pieces in the workshop it gives you some kind of ‘escape’ so you can channel your thoughts into something else apart from the pain.

@Steve-dr7rr

Жыл бұрын

@@Hand-i-Craft I’m trying to build my benches in my sh3d it’s slow going but using a router to do the half laps seems easier this way then I finish with my Japanese saw for edges. I like going out there either wobbly walking or in wheelchair. But all new to never done anything like this so everything I’m doing is for first time. I’m lucky as only suffered a few brain problems with strokes still can use limbs until I have a flair up then can’t move my arms which then I sleep downstairs in my chair I get about 2-3 hours a night. But I’m enjoying woodworking It’s like you you escape. This might help or not I got a telescopic pointer type thing with a magnet on end and light helps with screws and other bits magnet quite good I think it’s from Amazon or eBay might be worth looking into

@Steve-dr7rr

Жыл бұрын

@@Hand-i-Craft I’m also trying to figure out a dust collector system I’ve got dust collector a dust commander cyclone but it’s pipe work that has me confused

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

@@Steve-dr7rr Plenty of videos out there pal. I think Matt @badgerworkshop has covered a few about this topic 👍👍

@Steve-dr7rr

Жыл бұрын

I have him in subscription will have another watch

I'm having the trial device implanted this Wednesday. I've had 8 lumbar surgeries and two failed fusions. I'm extremely frightened to say the least! Did you have a trial 1st? Thank you for posting this. I'll certainly be foll following your journey. Jane...from Tampa, Florida

@Hand-i-Craft

9 күн бұрын

@@user-pv1tx7ic4v Hello Jane, thank you for message and my sincere best wishes for your upcoming trial. Yes I had the trial surgery prior to the full implant. The trial is quite uncomfortable due to the device being outside of you, but try to look past that part and focus on whether you are getting any pain relief from the implant itself. I’d be interested to hear how you get on😀👍

@user-pv1tx7ic4v

9 күн бұрын

@Hand-i-Craft Thank you for responding. Uncomfortable as in more pain?? I haven't asked about post op pain medication. Did you need more medication than usual after? Thanks again.

@Hand-i-Craft

9 күн бұрын

@@user-pv1tx7ic4v For the trial, I wouldn’t say more pain post procedure, it’s just quite uncomfortable as you will have the wires coming out of your body and the device / battery etc attached to you externally so, depending where your implant is, it can be a bit difficult trying to get comfortable sitting down / in bed etc. It’s a small price to pay though for finding out about the potential benefits of the device. If you go ahead with the full implant, yes the post operation pain is quite substantial for up to a couple of weeks

@user-pv1tx7ic4v

9 күн бұрын

@Hand-i-Craft Thanks for responding. I'm in such pain this morning I'm actually looking forward to it! Wish me luck and thanks again... Jane

Hi! I'm currently on Day 5 of my SCS trial. I have what they are calling chemo induced neuropathy. The stimulator is helping but I have the one that does have paresthesia. I'm trying to figure out how this constant pins and needles will fade into the background. Thank you for posting this and encouraging those of us still trying to get our nerve pain under control.

@Hand-i-Craft

11 ай бұрын

Hello Michelle and thank you for your comment and sharing your experience with the SCS. I’m glad to hear the implant is helping you and I hope someone is reading this and might be able to assist / offer advice who has a similar SCS to yourself👍. Good luck and I hope you continue to get some form of pain relief 🤞👍, best wishes, Leo 👍😀

Mate, I hope this works for you, for me I had Nevro implant, same as you, biggest mistake of my life, cannot wait to have to have it removed, just like 40% of patients who have had it installed, I really hope it works for you

@Hand-i-Craft

3 ай бұрын

I’m sorry to hear this Cookie, I really am. May I ask if you are in the USA as this type of surgery seems to be much more readily available there? Here in the U.K. it is very limited and maybe that is why they have a higher success rate. I was placed on the pathway to the SCS which took three years before they arrived at the full surgery solution. Before that was pain management programmes, non auto intervention etc and the trial version too. I wonder, may I ask how the approach to SCS surgery is undertaken where you are? I would like to learn more about how it is seen in other countries. No worries if you’d rather not share👍

Mine is going in on Feb 12th ❤

@Hand-i-Craft

6 ай бұрын

Best of luck and I hope it works out well for you in terms of chronic pain reduction 👍

I was recommended for this surgery but declined it. Next step was spinal chord surgery to relieve the pressure on my discs. Im only 29, i think im just going to live in pain until i can't take it anymore. Maybe ill try it a few years down the road. This does give me some inspiration, hope all is well

@Hand-i-Craft

6 ай бұрын

Thanks for the message Tyler and I hope you find some form of relief from your pain, whatever route you choose 👍

@Apodictic1

28 күн бұрын

The longer you wait, the greater the chance of permanent nerve damage and an increase in nerve pain that can not e fixed. I have a 5 level lumbar fusion with disc removed along with an intrathecal pain pump and currently doing the trial for the Nevro HFX peripheral nephropathy. I have had it in for 3 days and is giving me more relief each day.

I hope it’s working for you, I go in for SCS trial in 3 days.

@Hand-i-Craft

9 ай бұрын

Good luck with the trial, hope it goes well for you 👍👍

Hope we can all get out for a drink soon!

@Hand-i-Craft

Жыл бұрын

That would be great pal 😀😀👍👍

I had the permanent nevro HFX put in my back a couple of weeks ago. At first it didnt seem to do anything. So i started messing with the settings. Never could get it right. Then my wife took it made an adjustment an now im pain free. Im feeling like my old self again. The only pain i feel now is from the staples in my back. And they are coming out this week.

@Hand-i-Craft

2 ай бұрын

I’m sure you’ll definitely feel the benefit once the staples are removed. Great to hear it is working so well for you 👍👍👍

My daughter had the surgery and she had a broken piece of metal lodge in her spine. Now she is in constant pain with no recourse

@Hand-i-Craft

10 ай бұрын

I’m sorry to hear this😞. I’m aware this is major surgery and due to the nature of it is complicated and potentially dangerous.