Michael’s Story

StimRouter for hemiplegic shoulder pain

Michael Received StimRouter PNS for Hemiplegic Shoulder PainStimRouter lessened shoulder pain, resulting in an increased range of motion

Michael, Navy veteran and stroke survivor, was experiencing hemiplegic shoulder pain.

“My pain was an 8 or 9 on a scale of 1 to 10. It was pretty dramatic. I was almost in a vegetative state. I couldn’t get up to do anything including dressing myself,” Kosh explained.

“My pain level now, after the StimRouter implant, is almost next to nothing and I can raise my hand over my head without pain. It’s been amazing how well the StimRouter is working.” 

Michael was implanted with the StimRouter in April of 2017, and has since been able to get back into rehabilitation therapy to pursue his functional goals.

The difference in range of motion was quite dramatic and my Occupational Therapist couldn’t believe it. She reported an over 75% improvement. 

Michael’s wife Rhonda was the one who found information about the StimRouter: “I was reading about the H200 and L300 Bioness functional e-stim devices and started reading about the StimRouter. When Michael was getting fitted with the L300, I asked the Bioness representative about StimRouter, and the next thing I knew, we had an appointment to see Dr. Desai.”

Seven months post-implant, Michael uses the StimRouter every other day. He has benefited from significant carry-over pain relief, which means he is more comfortable when he turns the device off to bathe, sleep, and recharge the system. “I’m wearing it a good 5 to 6 hours at a time, especially when I’m at the gym and doing my yard work.”

Michael attributes his reduction in the use of the StimRouter to significant improvements in shoulder range of motion and strength. He has also been able to eliminate the use of prescription medication for his shoulder pain and is looking forward to continued improvement believing he will, in time, get back on the golf course. 

“I’m glad to be able to have the mobility back, so that I can do things like playing with my 19 grandchildren,” he said. “I’m amazed at how much mobility has returned and I’m looking forward to seeing my family over the holidays to show them what I can do … they’re not going to believe it.”