A spinal cord stimulator sounds immediately like science fiction. But it’s not. A spinal cord stimulator (SCS) is actually the forefront of technology. It treats patients safely and effectively. But what is it? It is a small device that is placed under the skin, and attached to the spinal cord. The device then sends electrical signals through the spine, and into the brain. One may immediately fear that it could be like an electric shock. But it is so much more complicated than that. And so much more exciting. A patient suffering from chronic pain can take this proactive step in addressing their pain management. Having a SCS implanted allows a patient to avoid several fruitless back surgeries. A patient can incorporate the SCS as part of their wellness regimen when other therapies have failed. But what is it really? And how does it work?
The spinal cord stimulator is a small device, with even smaller threads attached, and is surgically placed in your lower back. Attached to the spinal cord nerves to directly treat the pain, the SCS provides relief by sending small electric impulses. The device masks the pain signals before it reaches the brain, communicating with the body’s nervous system to release different neurochemicals. The pain signals can become partially interrupted, or even stopped. The device sends impulses that are very mild, and begin providing immediate relief. Instead of pain radiating throughout your body, the sensation changes to something manageable. The pain-relieving stimulation can be flexibly programmed for the therapy to provide a gentle tingling sensation (if the patient even ends up feeling anything). A mild tingle wins over a pain that radiates. The spinal cord stimulator is clinically proven to provide superior relief when compared to other conventional pain treatments. The SCS treats the chronic pain that can be found throughout the body, such as intense neck pain or shoulders. If implanting the SCS seems overwhelming, you need not worry. A patient can actually get a “trial run” with the device. Before it turns into a long term treatment plan, a patient can have a trial treatment with the stimulator. The patient has one end of the device’s threads placed over the nerves in the spinal cord (in the epidural space of the back) and the other end attached to the device that can be worn with a belt. If a patient has a successful trial period, then they can move to have it surgically implanted.
The SCS has become an ideal solution to incorporate into a chronic pain patient’s journey to relief. Having a spinal cord stimulator can prevent a cycle of pain-suffering-disability-pain in patients. Generally, patients don’t want to have to depend on longterm medication use. Incorporating a spinal cord stimulator allows a patient to take control of their pain management, and to fully pursue a fulfilling life. When you’re not held back from pain, life becomes something anyone wants to pursue.
If you have questions or concerns about pain management, back pain, and how a spinal cord stimulator can help please call a spinal cord stimulation specialist, today.