Chronic pain affects the physical, emotional, and psychological health. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS), available to those who have been unsuccessful with other treatments, such as physical therapy and surgery, can offer hope. This innovative therapy uses a minimally invasive approach to treat persistent nerve problems.
This article will cover the process of spinal cord stimulation, from early consultations to pain-free living, and what patients may anticipate.
What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
A spinal cord stimulator involves implanting an electrical device to send impulses along the spinal cord. These impulses reduce or even eliminate discomfort by disrupting pain signals in the spinal cord before they reach your brain. The SCS treatment is often used to treat:
- Chronic back pain
- Nerve pain (neuropathy)
- Post-surgical pain
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
- Failed back surgery syndrome
SCS works by focusing on the pain source. It can help patients gain mobility and independence without needing long-term drugs.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
The first step to a spinal cord stimulator is a consultation. During this appointment, your medical history will be reviewed, a physical examination will be conducted, and you will discuss your pain. The doctor’s goal is to determine whether or not SCS will be an effective treatment for you.
If you are:
- Chronic pain is present for more than 6 months.
- If you have tried other treatments, such as medication or physical rehabilitation, but they have not provided relief, try these.
- Pain can negatively impact your daily life and mental health.
Your pain doctor may recommend other diagnostic tests, like imaging studies or nerve conductivity tests, to help you better understand what is causing your pain.
Step 2: The Trial Period
One of the unique features of spinal cord stimulation is the “trial phase,” which allows patients a chance to test it before committing permanently to the implant. Here’s the way it works:
- Temporary leads placement:
The trial procedure involves inserting thin wires (leads) near the vertebral cord through a needle or small incision. These leads will be connected to an outside stimulator.
- Testing the device:
You’ll test the device for several days or a week. You may use a remote control to change the settings.
- Evaluating the Success of
Suppose the trial shows at least a 50 percent reduction in pain, and you can perform normal daily tasks better. In that case, your physician will recommend an implant.
Step 3: Permanent Implantation
Once the SCS trial has proven effective, implanting the permanent SCS device is the next phase. This minimally invasive procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours.
- Placing leads and generators:
The permanent lead is placed in the same place as the trial lead—near the spinal column. A small, battery-powered generator is then implanted underneath the skin, usually in the buttocks or lower back.
- Programming The Device:
After implantation, a device is programmed with optimal pain management. The settings are adjustable over time, depending on your preferences.
- Recovery:
Most patients can resume light activity in a few days and return to their normal routine within a month. Your doctor provides specific instructions about recovery and follow-up care.
Step 4: Living With Spinal Cord Stimulation
The quality of life for patients with SCS is significantly improved. Here’s an overview of what to anticipate:
- A Pain Relief Method:
Many patients find that they experience long-lasting relief from pain, which allows them to reduce their pain medication or eliminate it.
- Device Repair:
Modern SCS devices are designed for ease of use. Rechargeable devices require periodic charges, while non-rechargeable devices must be replaced after several years.
- Lifestyle Adaptations:
Although you may be able to return to your normal activities, a doctor will advise against some high-impact sports activities or sports that can damage the device.
- Follow-Up Visits:
Your doctor should regularly monitor the device to ensure it performs properly and provides optimal pain relief.
Conclusion
The journey towards pain relief involves a series of steps, which puts control in the patient’s hands. SCS, from the initial consultation to the permanent implantation and trial phase, is a proven method for treating chronic pain and improving the quality of life.
If you have chronic pain that hasn’t responded to traditional treatment, try spinal cord stimulation. With the help of a professional, you can find lasting relief from chronic pain with this innovative therapy.