How Spinal Cord Stimulators Help Relieve Spinal Pain

Chronic spinal pain can be debilitating and has historically been challenging to control. The science of spinal cord stimulation has made it possible for patients to find relief without medication. Spinal cord stimulators are devices that consist of two components. The first component is electrodes, which connect a battery pack generator similar to a pacemaker. When patients experience pain, they can turn on the device to get relief. The specifics of how spinal cord stimulation works aren’t well understood, but it has been proven effective.

 

How Spinal Cord Stimulators Help Relieve Spinal Pain

Historically, the signals from the spinal cord stimulation device produce a tingling sensation in place of the pain the patient normally experiences. However, modern innovations in spine stimulation technology have led to devices that offer “sub-perception” stimulation. This form of stimulation is imperceptible to the patient. This form of treatment is an effective approach after less invasive approaches have been attempted. They’re most frequently used to address the following conditions:

 

• Back Pain – Spinal stimulation  is most often used to address post-surgical back pain resulting from failed back surgery syndrome.
• Arachnoiditis – The arachnoid is a thin membrane that covers the spinal cord and brain. Arachnoiditis occurs when this membrane becomes inflamed.
• Angina (Heart Pain) – But only in cases where this condition isn’t treatable using other approaches.
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Neuropathy – When resulting from severe cases of diabetes or from chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation as part of cancer treatment.
• Peripheral Vascular Disease
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome 
• Post-Amputation Pain
• Perineal and Visceral Abdominal Pain

 

Spinal cord stimulation can benefit the patient in a number of important ways. This treatment can improve the patient’s ability to sleep, reduce the need for pain medicine, and improve their overall quality of life. In the majority of cases, spinal cord stimulation will be used alongside other treatment methods, including relaxation, physical therapy, and exercise.

Prior to receiving a spinal cord stimulation device, the patient must be assessed to determine if it’s appropriate for their case. This will generally involve a range of imaging tests and may include psychological screening. This screening is generally necessary to satisfy the requirements of insurance companies. It serves to eliminate the possibility that anxiety and depression are intensifying your experience of pain. Those who benefit most from spinal cord stimulation include those:

• Who do not receive sufficient pain relief with less-invasive therapies and medications
• Are free of psychiatric disorders that can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment

 

Contact Your Spine & Pain Specialist For More Information

There are three forms of spinal cord stimulator, each appropriate for different conditions. Reach out and schedule a consultation with your spinal and pain specialist to get further guidance. They’ll be able to analyze your case and determine if spinal cord stimulation can be effective for your case. Don’t let your pain continue to erode your quality of life. Reach out for relief by scheduling an appointment today!