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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Pain Pump

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Brazoria, TX

I was told today by my pain dr to consider a pain pump. The thought of not having to take oral pain meds and muscle relaxers is wonderful. To be honest I'm scared of the surgery.
If you have a pain pump can you tell me your experiences? Thanks!

October 14, 2016
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Answer Summary

Members shared mixed experiences with pain pumps, with one person's family member facing ongoing troubles, and another member describing a... Read more

Members shared mixed experiences with pain pumps, with one person's family member facing ongoing troubles, and another member describing a difficult personal journey that included complications from incorrect pump placement, adverse reactions to medications, insurance loss leading to years of running the pump on saline only, and ultimately removal due to persistent discomfort. Several members expressed empathy for the original poster's situation after traditional RA medications failed, with one healthcare professional reassuring that the surgery itself is typically minimal and superficial, and advising the poster to research which pump brand has the best track record rather than defaulting to whatever the surgeon suggests. A recurring theme was the challenge of navigating insurance barriers and the life-altering consequences when coverage is lost or not accepted, alongside genuine compassion for those facing such difficult treatment decisions.

A myRAteam Member

Thanks. It's been a long road the last few years. Remicade worked at the highest dose possible within the closest interval-4 weeks. I went thru a denial stage at one point when I was feeling really good for a few months. I thought I was 'healed' so I took myself off remicade. My dr freaked. After 12 weeks I went back on and it no longer helped me. 😭😩
Nobody else do this!!!

October 16, 2016
A myRAteam Member

I stopped my medications, will be calling rheumatologist tomorrow. Thanks for the information. So sorry you have had so many obstacles to scale. RN for many years. usually the surgery for these pumps is very minimal. They place the pump very close to the skin, it is very superficial. I would do my own studies on which pain pump has the best working history. Typicaly MDs hook up with whatever company comes to them and brings them samples. So you should pick your surgeon by the best pump, not vice versa.

October 16, 2016
A myRAteam Member

Thank you PennySavoie!
I've done some research on the brand they use. Now waiting to see if United Healthcare will pay!

October 16, 2016
A myRAteam Member

Oh my goodness @A myRAteam Member Maynard! That's horrible. I'm so sorry that's happened to you.

November 1, 2016
A myRAteam Member

So sorry for all of this, wat stunnes me is that Medicaid is not accepted everywhere, we did not do that to our self !!! But we can see it is all about money and not the people !! I wish you the best!!!

November 1, 2016

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