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Neurostimulator & Hot Tub?

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Posted 12/26/2010 10:38 AM (GMT -5)

I read somewhere that if you have an SCS device you should not use a hot tub.

Does anyone know if this is correct?

Posted 12/26/2010 10:55 AM (GMT -5)
Hello Krafty01!

I don't know much about the SCS device, but what I did find here on the internet, is that you should not soak in a bathtub or a Hot Tub for at least 4 to 6 weeks after it has been implanted. If it was me, I would give it a little longer than that. We have several members that have them, and hopefully they will be along soon to guide you on this question. Of course it is the Holiday season, so give the members plenty of time to get back from their Holiday activity's

Take care,

SE wink
Posted 12/26/2010 12:41 PM (GMT -5)
Hi Krafty, I would either call the dr (speak to the nurse) or the representative from the company and ask if it is ok to get in one. If the company has a website many times you can get questions answered by going to their website and looking. I have a pump and my dr told me no on getting in our jacuzzi. So, when I started seeing a new PM dr I asked her about getting in to it and she said absolutely. Prior dr would not give me a reason just said no.

Take care.
Posted 12/26/2010 7:18 PM (GMT -5)
Krafty, I have an SCS and I use my hot tub almost daily. I have absolutely no problems with the SCS in regards to soaking in the hot tub. Of course, you should think about it until the wound has totally healed. As I leave my SCS on 24 hours a day, it is also on while I am in the hot tub. Hope this helps.
Posted 12/26/2010 8:33 PM (GMT -5)
Krafty,

I have a PNS system (same device as the SCS, but it electrodes are attached to peripheral nerves, not spinal nerves, and my battery is in my chest). I have a hot tub at home & use it frequently (I was in it in the snow this afternoon). I was not allowed to get my incisions wet until after my sutures came out, but otherwise, I am free to swim, bathe, shower, etc.

Of course you should always check with your doctor/stimulator company rep, but I don't see why you should not be able to use a hot tub.

Skeye.
Posted 12/26/2010 11:22 PM (GMT -5)
Check with your doc, but I go in the hot tub without any issues & I have had an SCS for 5 years. It's not good to do until your would heals, but unless your doc has told you otherwise, there's no reason typically why someone with an SCS couldn't go in a hot tub, bath, etc.

They do recommend that you turn off your unit when you are in water -- pools, hot tubs, whatever -- since you cannot have the remote near water and it's always possible that the voltage could jump which could in theory cause someone to drown. I haven't heard of any actual cases of that happening but there is a theoretical danger. But as long as you have your unit off, I've never heard of any warnings whatsoever.
Posted 12/27/2010 12:00 PM (GMT -5)
Thanks to all responders!

What a great forum this is for information.
Posted 12/27/2010 8:05 PM (GMT -5)
Hi all-
I don't want to hi jack this thread, but have a question about the SCS also. I am a bow hunter and am wondering if anyone who has this implanted believes they would have a problem with the bow drawing motion? Mine, if I go through with it, is for my right ribs just below my shoulder blade. So it is higher up my back. I also coach a travel softball team and worry about not being able to hit balls or throw balls any more. I see my pain doctor Jan. 11th, but the people who have gone through this I believe are the real professionals on the subject. I am wondering all this after the 8week or whatever healing time, probably longer since I tend to heal slower.

Thanks for any input you can offer. This forum has given me so much hope. I wish all of you less pain in 2011!

Take care,
Bill
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