Chronic pain can disrupt your daily life and prevent you from performing day-to-day activities. One revolutionary treatment option offering hope to those struggling with chronic pain is spinal cord stimulation. This advanced pain relief technique is a valuable solution for those suffering from various types of pain conditions, including neuropathy, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS), and more. This article will dive into the science behind spinal cord stimulation and its impact on alleviating pain.
What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator?
A spinal cord stimulator (SCS) is a small implanted device that sends mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord. These electrical signals interrupt pain signals and mask the sensation of pain before it reaches the brain. Instead of experiencing pain, patients typically describe the feeling of mild stimulation as a tingling or numbing sensation called paresthesia.
How Does Spinal Cord Stimulation Work?
The SCS device consists of a small battery-powered generator and thin, flexible wires called leads. A small incision is made by a surgeon to place the generator beneath the skin in the lower back or buttock area. The leads are then placed into the epidural space around the spinal cord to deliver electrical pulses to specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals.
Various SCS devices offer different types of electrical stimulation, including low-frequency stimulation, high-frequency stimulation, and burst stimulation. Patients with chronic pain conditions that have not responded well to conservative treatments, such as medication or other therapies, may consider spinal cord stimulation as an option. It is essential to consult qualified healthcare professionals for spinal cord stimulation in Chicago, as they can help determine if a patient is a suitable candidate for this treatment.
Benefits of Spinal Cord Stimulation
Non-Drug Pain Relief
SCS is a non-drug treatment for chronic pain. It works by blocking pain signals from reaching the brain, and it does not require taking daily medications or other treatments. This allows patients to reduce or eliminate their reliance on prescription drugs while still managing their chronic pain effectively.
Improved Quality of Life
The most significant benefit of SCS is the improved quality of life it can provide to patients suffering from chronic pain. By reducing or eliminating pain, patients are able to improve their daily functioning and reduce their reliance on medications that may come with side effects or potential addiction risks.
Easy Customization
SCS devices allow for easy customization, allowing patients to adjust the settings as needed. By adjusting the device’s settings, patients can find the optimal level of stimulation to manage their pain and improve their overall quality of life.
To Sum Up
Spinal cord stimulation provides a viable alternative for chronic pain sufferers who have exhausted other, more conventional pain management options. It offers patients a chance to regain control over their pain and improve their quality of life. If you think you might be a candidate for spinal cord stimulation, consult a medical professional specializing in pain management to learn more about this revolutionary treatment option. Thank you for reading!