Navigating Chronic Back Pain
Back pain can feel like a rite of passage when adults age. Almost everyone experiences some degree of back pain at some point. Yet, there are cases where the condition is extremely painful and chronic, lasting for months or years. At this point, individuals with chronic back pain often seek treatment. Most individuals can navigate the condition with simple, consistent treatment. There are instances, however, when a doctor recommends surgery. Patients who want a non-surgical option can feel cornered. With a spinal cord stimulator (SCS), advanced pain management is possible.
Non-surgical procedures have limits
Before treating any back pain, consider visiting a doctor for a series of tests to determine possible causes of the issue. These checks also allow doctors to create a custom treatment plan. Pain management using non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and painkillers can help. Massage and physical therapy (PT) are effective at strengthening the surrounding muscles to support the back. Some individuals may benefit from steroid injections near the spine. These treatments, along with lifestyle changes, like diet and exercise, help most patients. Cases where pain does not subside or worsens may require surgery to address the root cause.
An innovative option with an SCS
While surgery is effective, some patients prefer to avoid the procedure. A patient may be worried about complications, scarring, or a lengthy recovery. Others prefer less drastic approaches that even have a chance of failing, needing additional procedures. A spinal cord stimulator may be suggested as an innovative way to manage pain and improve quality of life. This is a small device with long wires, called leads, attached that transport electrical pulses. The leads are placed next to the spine around the branch nerves that are causing pain. The battery-powered device sends electrical pulses to disrupt the nearby nerves, reducing the pain signals generally sent to the brain. The patient can adjust the output based on pain severity, providing fantastic control.
Give it a test run
Doctors recommend an SCS if the patient has had unsuccessful surgery, chronic severe pain, or would like to delay surgery. Installing an SCS is a straightforward process. First, the leads are placed near the epidural space using a catheter and live guided x-ray called fluoroscopy. The device is then turned on, sending electrical signals near the painful location. The patient can then confirm if there is pain relief. Doctors will provide an SCS on a test basis, with the patient keeping the device attached to the body. Patients will document the device’s effectiveness over a short period. This feedback helps the doctor and patient determine whether to permanently install the device.
Install for long-term use
An SCS can be permanently attached to the patient’s body for continued, long-term use. This only requires a small incision at the lower back or buttocks to slide and fasten the device. This is a safe process with minimal discomfort for the patient. An SCS has a long battery life of several years, and the patient will have wireless control over the device. This option helps patients avoid or delay surgery while improving the effectiveness of PT and other modalities. Patients can also limit the use of opioids, which can be addictive. Studies show that at least 50% of patients experience at least a 50% reduction in pain. This can fundamentally change a patient's life, providing the ability to move more easily and enjoy social activities.
Manage pain, your way
Patients want a more effective way to address chronic back pain without surgery. This is understandable as there are potential risks. A spinal cord stimulator may be an effective tool to boost pain management long-term without depending on medication. The device lasts for years and can be controlled, but there are limitations. SCS cannot address the root cause of pain, which may cause other health conditions later. Working with a spine surgeon or pain specialist can help patients map out a long-term pain plan that involves SCS and later procedures if needed.
