Millions of people suffer from chronic back pain and have been unable to find relief from various treatments. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has become a standard treatment for those suffering and the results are amazing. In fact, most patients who qualify for SCS report a 50 to 70% reduction in overall pain as well as an increased ability to participate in normal family and work activities.
Neuropathic pain occurs when there is an injury, trauma, or disease to the central nervous system (spinal cord) or peripheral nervous system (nerves outside of the spinal column). Neuropathic symptoms can cause you to experience sharp, stabbing pain. SCS provides relief from pain by using an implanted device that transmits electrical impulses to the spinal cord. The stimulation interrupts the feeling of pain and replaces it with a pleasing sensation called paresthesia.
If you are a candidate for a SCS trial, thin wires with electrical leads on their tips are place through a needle in the back near the spinal column. The leads are placed through a needle inserted in the back and small incision is made for the placement of a very tiny generator, which emits electrical currents to the spinal column. This device can stay with you for several days to a week depending on your condition. If the trial is successful and relief is achieved, a permanent device can be implanted.
If you have been suffering with chronic back pain, Northeast Spine and Sports Medicine can help. We offer spinal cord stimulator trials along with various other treatment options for back pain and other conditions. Contact us for an appointment to learn more.
