When it comes to spinal cord stimulation, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to understand that this is not a cure for any condition – it is a treatment that can help lessen pain and improve quality of life. Secondly, not everyone who suffers from chronic pain will be a candidate for this type of therapy – certain factors need to be considered. And lastly, it’s important to have realistic expectations about what this therapy can do concerning pain management.
Spinal Cord Stimulation entails placing a small device near the spinal cord. This device sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord, which in turn interrupts the pain signals that are being sent to the brain. In order to be a candidate for this type of therapy, patients must first undergo a trial period, during which time the stimulator is placed temporarily to see if it is effective in managing the pain. If the trial is successful, then a permanent device can be placed.
If you’re considering this type of therapy, it’s likely because you’ve been living with chronic pain that has not responded well to other forms of treatment. Maybe you’ve tried medication, physical therapy, and even surgery, but nothing has provided the relief you need. And chronic pain can take a toll on every aspect of your life – from your relationships to your career. So, you’re exploring this therapy as a way to get your life back.
With that said, let’s take a look at some of the conditions that may be helped by spinal cord stimulation:
1. Chronic Back Pain
This is one of the most common reasons people seek this therapy. Chronic back pain can be caused by some things, such as degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, and even spinal stenosis. If you’ve been living with chronic back pain for six months or more and other treatments haven’t provided relief, spinal cord stimulation may be an option.
2. Arachnoiditis
This condition affects the tissue around the spinal cord and can cause inflammation, scarring, and even pain. If you have arachnoiditis, your doctor may recommend spinal cord stimulation to help control your pain.
3. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a condition that can cause severe pain, swelling, and changes in the skin. It often affects one limb, but it can spread to other parts of the body. If you have CRPS, your doctor may recommend spinal cord stimulation to help control your pain.
4. Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
This condition can occur after you have surgery to treat a problem with your back. If you have failed back surgery syndrome, you still have pain even after the surgery. In some cases, spinal cord stimulation may be an option for people with this condition.
5. Neuropathy
Neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves, and it can cause pain, tingling, and numbness. There are many types of neuropathy, but some common causes include diabetes, chemotherapy, and shingles. If you have neuropathy, your doctor may recommend spinal cord stimulation to help control your pain.
These are just a few of the conditions that may be helped by spinal cord stimulation. If you’re living with any of the mentioned conditions, talk to your doctor about pain management and know whether this therapy could be an option.
