Patients who struggle with chronic pain can have immense difficulty finding an appropriate treatment option. A spinal cord stimulator has proven effective for many patients who have not responded to other medications or treatments and for those who struggle with severe pain. It has widespread applications and allows patients to play an active role in their ongoing pain treatment.
Combat Multiple Chronic Pain Sources with SCS
A variety of conditions may respond well to spinal cord stimulation. It is a minimally invasive treatment that can be used to treat:
- Radiculopathy
- Chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Degenerative disc disease
- Failed back surgery syndrome
- Other chronic pain conditions
Advantages of Spinal Cord Stimulators
SCS has diverse advantages for patients. Some of the benefits include:
- Reduced opioid use
- Reduced risk of complications
- Customizable settings
- Potential for long-term pain relief
- Enhanced mobility
Spinal cord stimulation also begins with a trial period in which a temporary device is used before the implantation is permanent. That gives patients the potential to gauge the effectiveness of the treatment before a long-term commitment.
Spinal Cord Stimulation Available at Interventional Spine and Pain
The experienced providers at Interventional Spine and Pain are familiar with the technology used in SCS, and they recommend the use of the Boston Scientific Wavewriter™ Alpha SCS system. It allows you to choose settings to suit you, including tingling stimulation, non-tingling stimulation, or a combination of both sensations.
How Does the Boston Scientific Wavewriter™ Alpha SCS System Work?
After your provider has cleared you for the procedure, you’ll first be fitted with a trial version of the system that will remain external. If the treatment proves effective, then the permanent implant will be placed during an outpatient procedure. Your provider will place thin, flexible leads strategically in your back. The leads connect to the implanted stimulator. It generates pulses to disrupt pain signals and stop them from reaching your brain.
How to Qualify for a Spinal Cord Stimulator
Qualification for an SCS will vary from person to person, but the basic steps may include:
- A thorough medical and pain history, including lifestyle factors
- Diagnosis and/or treatment assessment
- A psychological evaluation
- Diagnostic imaging
- A trial period with a temporary device
Generally, your provider will only recommend spinal cord stimulation after other conservative treatments and therapies have failed or have produced less optimal results.
Potential Side Effects
A spinal cord stimulator implanted by a pain management specialist is likely to have very few negative side effects. Generally, effects may include irritation or infection at the implantation site, adjustments of the device placement or settings, and mechanical problems related to the device’s function.
Take Control with Interventional Spine and Pain
No matter the source of your pain, you can count on the experience and expertise of the providers at Interventional Spine and Pain. We offer advanced treatment options like spinal cord stimulation and more.
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