A Medtronic Pain Management Resource

Common Questions

Doctor and patient looking at a model of a spineQ: Now that my pain is more manageable, my New Year’s Resolution is to get back in shape. Are there any guidelines I should follow or things to keep in mind regarding my neurostimulation or drug delivery system?

A: Generally, your neurostimulation system will not limit your daily activities. However, you should always follow your physician’s instructions with regard to work, exercise, hobbies, and other activities.

NEUROSTIMULATION – You should know where your lead is placed and what movements may put strain on the lead, or on the stitches that hold the neurostimulator in place. Strenuous activities (for example, moving or lifting heavy objects) may damage or move the lead. Activities that involve certain motions such as repetitive lifting, bending, twisting, bouncing, or stretching movements may cause the lead or neurostimulator to move within the body. This may result in undesirable changes in stimulation. Activities that require repetitive bending or twisting should be approached with caution.

Although the components of your neurostimulation system are made of durable materials, they are still subject to wear. Therefore, repetitive movements can cause damage over time that may require replacement or additional surgery. Always discuss specific activities with your physician. He or she will be able to tell you if certain movements may place strain on the lead or neurostimulator.

DRUG DELIVERY – You should know where your catheter is placed and what movements may stretch or put strain on the catheter, or on the stitches that hold the pump in place. Activities that involve certain motions such as sudden, excessive, or repetitive bending, twisting, bouncing, or stretching may damage the pump or catheter, or cause the catheter to move. The catheter may also become kinked or blocked, preventing drug delivery and resulting in a measurable or dangerous loss of or change in therapy. This may require surgery to repair or replace the catheter or pump. Activities that require repetitive bending or twisting should be approached with caution.

Although the catheter is made of flexible and durable materials, it is still subject to wear. Therefore, repetitive movements can cause damage over time that may require replacement or additional surgery. Always discuss specific activities with your physician. He or she will be able to tell you if certain movements may place strain on the catheter or pump.

Q: Can I use an electric blanket or heating pad with my implanted device?

A: Medtronic recommends that you discuss with your physician the use of an electric blanket or heating pad before using either product.

Please understand that the following recommendations are based on Medtronic’s knowledge of the technology rather than on clinical testing. Please follow these guidelines:

NEUROSTIMULATION – It is recommended that devices not be placed near or over any of the implanted system components (leads, extension, and battery). When using an electric blanket or electric heating pad, we recommend that your neurostimulator first be turned down and then turned off, and that the electric control be kept at least 10 inches from your implanted components. If you notice any changes such as increased warmth around your implanted components, please remove the electric blanket or heating pad. If the blanket or heating pad contains a magnet, we recommend that the magnet be kept at least 10 inches away from the neurostimulator.

DRUG DELIVERY – If the blanket or heating pad contains a magnet, we recommend that the magnet be kept at least 10 inches away from the implanted drug delivery system. Electric blankets or heating pads that create a temperature greater than 39ºC (102ºF) at the pump implant location should be avoided.

Q: Each winter, I travel to a warmer climate. What if something happens to my device while I’m traveling?

A: It is recommended that prior to any travel, whether for vacation, school, or for the winter months, that you make arrangements for care if needed.

There are additional considerations if you have a Drug Delivery System. If you will require a refill while traveling, it is very important to make arrangements 30 days before leaving home. Many physicians will only refill the patients that they implanted. Your physician’s office may contact the physician where you will be traveling to make a referral. You may check the website for physician listings at www.medtronicpain.com or call Patient Services at 800-510-6735, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. CST.