Severe Spinal Stenosis Prognosis

I was then told that the Pain/Spinal MDT had discussed my case and suggested that I be referred to the Pain Clinic to discuss the possibility of Neuromodulation. (Spinal Cord Stimulation).

 I saw A doctor who went through the procedure of Neuromodulation with me. He gave me a very fulsome explanation as to what the procedure entailed and how it was performed. As I was still waiting for my Heart Surgery he said this would be left on file to be discussed at a later date. 

I saw the Pain Consultant in 2019 who said I would NOT benefit from Neuromodulation!

In March 2021 I was hospitalised after collapsing at home and was diagnosed with Heart Failure. Obviously this very upsetting episode somewhat diverted my attention away from my Spinal problems. However I’m now learning to live with that and so I asked the GP to re-refer me to the Pain Clinic as my back pain was worsening and getting very debilitating.

In December 2021 I was seen by a different Pain Consultant, who had been drafted in from St Bart’s to help with the waiting lists. This was a very positive appointment and the doctor was very sympathetic to my multiple problems. He then talked to me about Neuromodulation and said I would need another MRI Scan to decide on future potential treatment. (He explained that although it was a course of action he would have potentially recommended (had I have been under his direct care) the decision as to what action would be taken would be left to the Ipswich Team).

In March this year I had an MRI Scan and was given a copy of the report a short time afterwards. The report stated that I had Severe Spinal Stenosis which was worse that before the Laminectomy. I then waited for the follow up appointment which took place with original Consultant in May 2022.

 Although as previously detailed I had already had 2 x (unsuccessful) Nerve Root Block procedures the Consultant offered the same procedure again. I was also prescribed Pregabalin for pain relief. No mention was made with regard to the original discussions of the potential use of Neuromodulation?

 I had to stop the Pregabalin due to side effects. 6weeks ago I had 6 Facet Joint Injections which unfortunately have once again failed.

I went for a follow up appointment and the Consultant prescribed Buprenorphine Patches. So far the only effect has been to make me feel nauseous with no help on pain relief.

I’ve now decided to get a second opinion from a Private Spine Consultant as the Pain Consultant said there was no more help they could offer.

A friend with very similar problems has found some relief from Cannabis Patches prescribed by his doctor - has anyone had experience of this. 

I’m also conscious and very worried about the future has I now have very limited mobility.

Does anyone know if there are Disability Benefits available for someone passed retirement age?

Any help would be gratefully appreciated.

Kind regards 

David