"Spinal Cord Stimulation Surgery"

I was fortunate to be referred to the doctor and his pain management team, following four and half years of unsuccessful treatment for chronic pain. From the outset I was told what treatment and care I would receive when attending the pain management programme, this honest approach never wavered, my clinician never changed and my appointments were always confirmed in writing. This continuity was important to me and I believe was fundamental in having a successful pain management programme. The pain Psychologist who was assigned to me was wonderful, so professional but also empathetic and genuinely caring. Without the time she spent with me and the support which she gave to me, I would have found it very difficult to move forward with my life. I was fortunate to be given the chance to have the SCS trial and following a successful trial I received the implant in May 2014. Every member of staff who treated me at the day surgery unit at Orsett, were great. From the receptionist and ward staff, through to the theatre staff and surgeon, all these people made a difference. I cannot thank everybody who was involved enough, all I can say is that the NHS has often come under scrutiny by the press, the public and in the past this included myself. Don't tar everybody with the same brush, there are still people who work within the NHS, who are caring, put the patient first and treat you like a human being. At 41 years old, I had pretty much resigned myself to being on morphine for the rest of my life, not knowing what day it was and withdrawing myself from family and friends. The care and treatment I have received has enabled me to start again for which I will always be truly grateful to the doctor and his pain management team.