A multitude of therapies exist for treating pain. However, not all methods work for all people. In addition, some people have trouble finding a method that works specifically for them. In some cases, people simply don’t want to use certain methods of pain relief, especially if they’re overly invasive. With a spinal cord stimulator, it’s possible to keep or regain quality of life through a simple process.
What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator?
Spinal cord stimulation describes a reversible procedure that involves placing a very small wire close to where the pain stems from. The process occurs under careful conditions using x-ray to help guide the lead placement. The device, a spinal cord stimulator, isn’t permanent and the process is minimally invasive.
How Does a Spinal Cord Stimulator Work?
Once in place, the spinal cord stimulator can block pain signals from moving from the nerve to the brain. Instead, the device will deliver a small electrical signal. That electrical signal overrides the feeling of pain through the neuromodulation process. The device can help to significantly reduce pain for some patients. That reduction of pain can come with all the benefits one would expect from pain relief. Some of those benefits can include:
- Improved mobility and range of motion
- A decrease in the need for taking narcotic or other strong pain medications
- Better and more beneficial sleep
- Improved quality of life overall
A major benefit of a spinal cord stimulator is its ability to target pain. By contrast, certain medications and some other procedures may affect someone’s whole body. In this case, the device offers targeted, more effective pain relief.
This therapy also offers adjustable pain relief. Everyone experiences pain differently. The ability to adjust the signals sent by the device can help people deal with their specific amount of pain. As with all pain management techniques, therapies, and modalities, spinal cord stimulation isn’t for everybody. The therapy can eliminate pain for some, but only reduce it for others.
Since the process is safe and reversible, this therapy often starts as a trial. Patients can try it out for a week or so and see if the device offers them significant enough pain reduction to continue with a more permanent solution.
Who Is a Candidate for Spinal Cord Stimulation?
In most cases, spinal cord stimulation will come up as an option for people who aren’t having success with other forms of pain management. Spinal cord stimulation can also become an option for those who would rather not go through invasive surgery or other procedures.
Often, due to other health-related reasons, some forms of pain management aren’t viable for some patients. In such cases, spinal cord stimulation may come up as a possible solution. Understand this procedure should only happen at a qualified facility and with a qualified professional.
Many pain management procedures exist for even the most severe types of pain. A spinal cord stimulator is just one of the many therapies offered. Speak to us about your pain and we’ll guide you towards the proper pain management solutions to help you restore your quality of life.
Share