This story reflects the experience of one individual who is receiving a Medtronic Pain Therapy for the treatment of chronic pain. Medtronic invited this person to share her story candidly. As you read it, please bear in mind that the experiences are specific to this particular individual. Not everyone who receives intrathecal drug delivery therapy will receive the same results as the individual in this story. Talk with your doctor to determine if intrathecal drug delivery therapy is right for you.

Rose Ann's Story

Approximately 30 years ago, Rose Anne was working as a physical therapy aide and shuttle bus driver at a school for children with disabilities. One afternoon at work, Rose Ann noticed a little girl losing her balance.

"I reacted immediately, without positioning myself properly to break her fall," she recounts. "I fell flat on a mat, face down. As I tried to get up, I felt a gripping pain stab me in the back, and waves of pain radiating down my legs."

After 4 months of hospitalization and long hours of physical therapy, Rose Ann was well enough to return to work. Then she re-injured herself assisting a child on the shuttle bus.

Life With Chronic Pain

Over the next several years, Rose Ann endured multiple back surgeries. "At that point, I accepted that I would live my life with chronic pain," she says. "I decided to return to school to complete my formal education."

Four years later, Rose Ann obtained her master's degree and was offered a great job. But just 3 months after Rose Ann started her new career, she was in a terrible car accident.

"I became a prisoner in my own bed," Rose Ann says. "I required assistance with just about everything."

"The thing that troubled me most was my inability to go places with my family," Rose Ann recalls. "They would make plans to go do things in an effort to bring me out of my depression, but my body just wouldn't cooperate."

"I tried physical therapy, oral pain medications, counseling, and just about every surgical intervention known to man, but to no avail," Rose Anne continues. "When I finally had to accept the fact I could no longer work, I was devastated."

What Intrathecal Drug Delivery Can Do

During an office visit, a nurse told Rose Ann about a drug pump (intrathecal drug delivery). After lengthy discussions with her pain management physician and family, Rose Ann decided to give it a chance.

"I will admit, I was skeptical at first," However, during the screening test, Rose Ann says, "The relief was instantaneous! For the first time in 30-plus years, I felt almost human."

Since having the drug pump implanted, Rose Ann's life has greatly improved. "I'm able to perform most independent living skills and do simple chores around the house," she says. "I seldom miss out on an opportunity to go out to eat with my family, take in a movie, or shop. The pain is now tolerable to some degree."

Risks of Intrathecal Drug Delivery

Although Rose Ann did not experience any complications, they are possible. In addition to surgical risks, such as infection, and drug related adverse events, pump or catheter problems can occur and may require corrective surgery.

"I Enjoy a Quality of Life Far Beyond What I Had"

Like other individuals with chronic pain, Rose Ann reports having both good days and bad days. The difference now is that the good days far outnumber the bad.

"I am once again able to take part in my life and feel good about myself," says Rose Ann. "Is my pain completely gone? I would be less than honest if I said it was. But at least it's now at a level I can live with."

"I enjoy a quality of life far beyond what I had, thanks to Medtronic!" she concluded.

Next: Wendy's Story

This story reflects one person's experience. Not every person will receive the same results. Talk to your doctor about your treatment options.

Last updated: 18 Feb 2013