29 Jan Using Spinal Cord Stimulation for Non-Invasive Pain Relief
Have you tried numerous approaches to treat your neck or back pain with no luck, from physical therapy to over the counter medications? Have you been considering riskier approaches for what’s become chronic pain? Integrated Pain Consultants often see patients who are at their wits end and in desperate need of pain management. However, medications are best used for short-term pain and surgery comes with a host of risks. Fortunately, spinal cord stimulation is a safe, effective, and non-addictive alternative to more aggressive options.
What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation
Every year, around 14,000 people undergo spinal cord stimulator implants. Also known as SCS, the implant provides constant electrical stimulation directly to the nerves that are sending pain signals to the brain. The signals might be modified or completely blocked, and no medicine/drugs are required at all. Spinal cord stimulation has been used since 1967 and was approved in 1989 by the Food and Drug Administration for pain relief due to nerve damage in the trunk, legs, and arms. It’s now used for nearly all neuromodulation treatments.
How Spinal Cord Stimulation Works
Today’s implants are very small and non-invasive. They’re compatible with common equipment, such as magnetic resonance imaging machines, and are growing in popularity thanks to the aging population. Many patients are surprised to find that spinal cord stimulation offers a “trial period” where it can be tested out short-term before the permanent implant is placed. It’s part of a two-step process to make sure spinal cord stimulation is only used for those who will most benefit from this treatment. If you discover spinal cord stimulation isn’t for you during the trial period, it can be quickly and painlessly removed in an office appointment and requires just a small bandage for a fast heal.
Spinal cord stimulation doesn’t work for all patients, which is why the trial period is critical. However, those who are good candidates report a minimum of 50 percent pain reduction immediately. The permanent and temporary placement is fast and pain-free. If you’re a good candidate, you’ll instantly feel relief and enjoy better daily functioning.
Ask Integrated Pain Consultants About Spinal Cord Stimulation
Many patients accept risky solutions as a last resort, and because their pain has become unbearable. However, there are alternatives. If you’re looking for a drug-free option that’s effective for many, spinal cord stimulation might be for you. Call 480-626-2552 and schedule an appointment with Integrated Pain Consultants. 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.