14 Sep Who is the Ideal Candidate for Spinal Cord Stimulation?
If you have tried surgery and other major treatments to alleviate back and neck pain, but you are still not seeing relief, what options are left for you? Spinal cord stimulation is a procedure you should consider. Although this pain relief method has been around for 50 years, it is just beginning to gain in popularity as more and more individuals are living with chronic pain.
Spinal cord stimulation relies on an implant near the spine to generate electrical pulses. These pulses essentially override the pain messages that the spine is sending to the brain. This results in substantial and long-term pain relief. Ready to try spinal cord stimulation for yourself? Read on to see if you would make a good candidate.
Spinal Cord Stimulation Is A Two-Step Process
The first step is an assessment from a doctor. The doctor will determine what type of condition you have and what treatments you have tried in the past. If you have had surgeries to alleviate back and neck pain, but they were unsuccessful, then you would be a good candidate for spinal cord stimulation. Spinal cord stimulation is also recommended for conditions such as refractory angina, complex regional pain syndrome and peripheral neuropathy.
If you fit the criteria, the next step is a trial period to see if you experience any pain relief from the spinal cord stimulation. The device is not implanted into the body during this time. An external transmitter is used instead, but the wires with electrodes are inserted into the body. This requires a surgical procedure and you’ll be placed under anesthesia.
During this trial period – which may last 5–7 days – you will make note of your pain levels at certain times of the day and in specific situations. You will be able to adjust the stimulation with the hand-held controller.
Manage Back Pain With Help from Scottsdale Pain Management Experts at Integrated Pain Consultants
Pain due to back issues can be debilitating. Board certified pain management expert Dr. Nikesh Seth and his team of pain specialists have helped many Scottsdale patients find relief. Is spinal cord stimulation right for you? Book a consultation online today or call (480) 626-2552. We also invite you to learn more about Dr. Nikesh Seth and other providers including Dr. Anne-Marie Cosijns, Dr. Lisa Sparks, Dr. Michael Givens, and our team of Nurse Practitioners.