What is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a revolutionary neurostimulation therapy that uses electrical pulses to the spinal cord to relieve chronic pain. It can significantly reduce or even eliminate chronic pain. This type of therapy has been used in various medical settings for over 30 years and has proven to be an effective treatment option for those afflicted with chronic pain. The spinal cord stimulator consists of an implanted battery, and an epidural lead containing electrodes that are placed close to the spinal cord lining. The system is operated by the patient and controlled by a handheld remote control.
Who Should Have Spinal Cord Stimulation?
OrthoNebraska identifies candidates for a spinal cord stimulator by those who have suffered chronic pain conditions. Such conditions include post laminectomy syndrome (failed back syndrome), chronic radiculopathy, chronic neuropathy and chronic regional pain syndrome. The candidate must have failed an adequate trial of conservative treatments and have passed a psychological screening. A physical assessment and detailed review of your spine health history will be done as a part of a consult for spinal cord stimulation at an office appointment.
How Well Does Spinal Cord Stimulation Work?
Spinal cord stimulation has been proven to be effective in significantly reducing chronic pain levels, restoring mobility and reducing the need for medication, allowing individuals to live an improved quality of life with fewer side effects.
Some patient and physician reported improvements include:
- Improved muscle and nerve function
- Increased joint movement in hips, knees, and ankles
- Improved walking and coordination
- Less reliance on walking assistance
- Decrease need for pain medications
- Reduction in chronic pain
With spinal cord stimulation, patients experience a significant enhancement in their enjoyment of life. By alleviating the sensation of pain and enabling a greater quality of comfort and mobility, this treatment empowers their optimism on pain control.
What Can I Expect When I Have Spinal Cord Stimulation?
When undergoing spinal cord stimulation therapy, your doctor will first perform a series of tests and assessments to determine if you are an appropriate candidate for treatment. You will have a 1-week trial placement of the spinal cord stimulator to make sure it is the right option for you. You will track your activity and pain that week, then return to the office for removal and discussion of permanent spinal cord stimulator placement. Typically, if the patient has greater than 50% pain relief during the trial, it is considered a success. The permanent spinal cord stimulator implant is an outpatient procedure with no hospital stay. Most people experience an improvement in their pain levels within a week of implantation, but it may take several weeks for full relief to be achieved.
