Ellen G.
Urgency-frequency

The procedure for long-term therapy was so easy for me. I had very little discomfort. I think there's more anxiety involved in the trial assessment procedure, when the leads are put in.

The results were pretty immediate. The biggest difference I noticed was the lack of urgency. I used to never be able to hold it when I had to go. But now, I can finish a lesson with the kids and go to the bathroom when it's convenient for me. I get up only 2 times a night, which is really, truly a gift, when you consider that I had been going 8 or 10 times!

I can now do normal everyday activities: with my kids, at work, with friends. I recently went golfing for the first time. I played 9 holes and didn't have to leave the golf course, which was shocking, because I never would have been able to do that before. I don't have anxiety about trying new things.

Now, I can go to my kids' games and concerts, and I don't have to interrupt watching my kids to find a bathroom. I can relax and enjoy the event without worrying about where the bathroom is, or where I have to drive to find a bathroom.

Travel is much easier for me, too. Just last week we drove from New York to North Carolina. My husband would pass a sign for a rest stop and say, “Do you need to stop?” I could say, “Nope! We can wait for the next one!”

For people who are ready for that next step--if medication doesn't work for them, or if they're uncomfortable being on medication--go talk with someone who does InterStim Therapy. I know the two-step process seems overwhelming at first. Anytime you walk into the unknown, it's very scary. But I think talking with someone who's been through it is one of the best ways to alleviate the anxiety.

Next: Elaine's Story

Although you should be able to do most activities you did before surgery, there are some activities which may cause discomfort or affect your implanted neurostimulator. Review the following information, and if you have any concerns or questions about these or other activities, contact your doctor.

Activities you should avoid – You should avoid activities that involve sudden, excessive, or repetitive bending, twisting, bouncing, or stretching. These movements could damage or move your implanted lead or affect the implanted neurostimulator. Examples of such activities include gymnastics, mountain biking, and any other sport or activity that involves the movements
described above.

Activities you can continue – Activities that should not affect your implanted InterStim Therapy system include running, jogging, walking, road biking, swimming, sexual activity, etc.

This story recounts the experience of one patient who is receiving InterStim Therapy. Medtronic invited her to share her story candidly. Please bear in mind that the experiences are specific to this particular person. Results vary; not every response is the same. Talk to your doctor to determine if neurostimulation is right for you. In addition to risks related to a medical procedure, complications from this therapy can include pain, infection, sensation of electrical shock, device problems, undesirable change in voiding function, and lead migration, among others. This story reflects one person's experience. Not every person will receive the same results. See Important Safety Information for possible adverse events. This therapy is not for everyone. Please consult your doctor. A prescription is required.