5 months post op

Good morning today marks the 5 month post op date for my surgery. I want to first start by saying that I am glad I had the surgery. As some know the surgery has caused a lot of pain and discomfort. I have lost a lot of motion in my neck and at times bending can be difficult. Since I had the stimulator implanted I have only had a few really bad headaches, but the intensity of them were not as bad.  Also with the adjustments that were done last month every thing seems to be working a lot better. I am still trying to find a happy medium with the settings but the over all relief and coverage area are much better. I have still got frequent shooting pains across the back of my head and eyes but that is to be expected. Going into this I knew that it would not be a complete fix to the problem. Another thing to note is that the area around the battery pack has been very sore ( I have been told this is normal due to all the muscle tissue that was cut and the placement of the battery) I am getting used to the feeling of the stimulation and its amazing how I can easily adjust the power of it. One complaint I do have is that I can frequently feel the stimulation changing with my position ie sitting to standing. My medtronic rep told me that is very normal, but can not be corrected with my type of battery. It has been said that when my battery needs to be replaced ( 6+ years from now) that I will be able to get one with that option. I am also very impressed how the 3 different sites have healed over the last 5 months. The one on the back of my neck is very hard to notice. Of course I was told that I had a neurosurgeon stitch them up ;) To end this I want to thank the support of my fantastic wife Nicole ( I love you a lot and your support means the world to me!) I also want to thank all my family and friends for their continued support every day and for asking me how I am doing. I also want to continue to thank my EMS and fire family for all the support and encouragement it really means a lot that all of you have stood by me during this! :) To all I hope you have a fantastic day!