Pain Relief With Spinal Stimulation
Back pain can be crippling, reducing the quality of life and requiring treatment. Close to 1 in 10 American adults have chronic back pain, lasting several months or years without relief. Back pain has brought a rise in many surgical and non-surgical options. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a medical procedure that has attracted attention as a potential long-term treatment for back pain. This technique may help patients avoid surgery.
The power of SCS
Back pain is often caused by irritation of nerves in the lower spine. While pain management helps, in many cases, the treatment is not enough. With SCS, an implanted device sends electrical pulses to the spinal cord. These electrical pulses relieve chronic back pain by interrupting nerve signals before reaching the brain. The procedure starts with a trial, where wires are surgically implanted in the painful area. The device then sends electrical signals. If the patient experiences relief, the entire device is surgically installed near the back.
What are the benefits?
According to recent research, spinal cord stimulation may significantly reduce chronic pain over the long term. Patients who underwent this therapy reported less severe pain and improved quality of life. An additional advantage is a decrease in opioid use. For those worried about the potential risks and adverse effects of opioids, SCS can be beneficial. Enhancing functionality is another known benefit. Patients receiving spinal cord stimulation report an improvement in overall quality of life.
Risks and limitations
Spinal cord stimulation has some limitations and potential risks. First, there needs to be more long-term data to fully comprehend the effectiveness of spinal cord stimulation after a certain period. Additionally, each person will react differently to the therapy. As a result, doctors and patients must discuss expectations before deciding whether this course of treatment is appropriate. As placement of the stimulator is an invasive procedure, there are inherent risks like infection, nerve damage, and the potential need for additional surgeries if complications arise. Overall, the rewards will exceed the risks of SCS.
Long-term relief?
Studies show that 85% of SCS patients experience sustained relief after 2 years of treatment. There are also potential long-term advantages of 10-kHz high-frequency spinal cord stimulation for chronic axial low back pain without prior spinal surgery. A recent study found that participants using a SCS used fewer opioids and experienced significant pain relief and improved functionality. This procedure can help patients avoid major surgery and enjoy a better quality of life.
Relieve symptoms with SCS
Spinal cord stimulation shows promise as a long-term treatment for back pain. The procedure has the potential to relieve symptoms, lessen reliance on opioids, and enhance functionality. Preliminary studies have shown positive results, but the procedure's limitations and risks must be considered. There are few long-term studies on the effectiveness of spinal cord stimulation, and individual responses can differ. Seek advice from a healthcare professional for a precise diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.
