[tim]

Does anyone with MS have an ITB pump? My wife went through the trial and is considering the implant with great reservations. The trial did not go as well as she expeted and she is really worried about the effects after the surgery. We were not as well imfomed as we thought we should have been about the trial. This only makes it worse when considering the surgery. We have two small children, jobs, etc. and she doesn't want things to get worse after the implant. Any insights?? Thanks
Tim

[susan]

tim, on Apr 10 2006, 07:30 PM, said:

Does anyone with MS have an ITB pump? My wife went through the trial and is considering the implant with great reservations. The trial did not go as well as she expeted and she is really worried about the effects after the surgery. We were not as well imfomed as we thought we should have been about the trial. This only makes it worse when considering the surgery. We have two small children, jobs, etc. and she doesn't want things to get worse after the implant. Any insights?? Thanks
Tim

Tim, I have MS and have had the ITB pump since 2003. It has helped with the spasticity in my legs, especially the ankles and knees. However, I have found that if the dosage is increased enough to take away the hip spasticity, then I have very poor balance and a lot of weakness. I am glad I decided to get the pump, although I find there is a delicate balance between spasticity and weakness when the pump is adjusted. Exercise does help; after recovery from the surgery, I had PT 3X/week for 1 hour sessions for about 3 months. I was amazed at the improvements in balance, symmetry and strength at the end of the 3 months. However, these results have not continued, probably for a variety of reasons... motivation to exercise consistently independently, fatique, and progression with the MS. Everyone has to make their own individual decision regarding the pump. I hope this info helps you and your wife in the decision. Let me know if you have any other questions. Susan