{"id":27928,"date":"2023-06-15T15:05:53","date_gmt":"2023-06-15T15:05:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sciatica.com\/?page_id=27928"},"modified":"2023-06-29T15:01:31","modified_gmt":"2023-06-29T15:01:31","slug":"spinal-cord-stimulation","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.sciatica.com\/spine-treatments\/ultra-mis\/spinal-cord-stimulation\/","title":{"rendered":"Spinal Cord Stimulation"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Living with chronic pain can significantly impact one’s quality of life, often leading to frustration and limited mobility. Fortunately, advancements in medical technology have introduced innovative solutions to manage chronic pain. One such breakthrough is spinal cord stimulation (SCS), a remarkable therapy that offers hope for individuals seeking relief from persistent pain. In this article, we will explore what spinal cord stimulation is and how it can help alleviate chronic pain, providing a simplified explanation for the layperson.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n

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Understanding Spinal Cord Stimulation<\/h2>\n

Spinal cord stimulation involves the use of a small device to deliver mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord, altering the perception of pain signals sent to the brain. It works on the principle of “gate control theory,” where the electrical stimulation essentially closes the “gate” through which pain signals pass, reducing their impact on the brain and providing pain relief.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n

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How is the Spinal Cord Stimulation Procedure Performed?<\/h2>\n

The first step in spinal cord stimulation is a trial period, during which a temporary electrode or leads are placed near the spinal cord’s targeted area. This is typically done through a minimally invasive procedure, often under local anesthesia. The leads are connected to an external generator, which the patient can control to adjust the level of stimulation. This trial phase allows individuals to assess the effectiveness of spinal cord stimulation in managing their pain before moving forward with a permanent implant.<\/p>\n

For those who experience significant pain relief during the trial, a permanent implantation procedure may be recommended. This involves placing a small generator device under the skin, typically in the abdominal or buttock region. The leads are then implanted near the spinal cord, and the generator is connected to the leads. Once implanted, the device can be programmed and adjusted by a healthcare professional to provide customized pain management.<\/p>\n\n \n \t\t\t\t<\/div>\n \t\t\t<\/div>\n \t\t<\/div>\n \t<\/div>\n\n \n \t\n <\/section>\n\n\n\n\n\n

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Who is a Potential Candidate?<\/h2>\n
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Spinal cord stimulation is primarily used for chronic pain conditions that have not responded to conventional treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or surgery. It is particularly effective in managing neuropathic pain, which originates from damaged nerves. Conditions like failed back surgery syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome, and neuropathic leg pain can often be effectively treated with SCS.<\/p>\n\n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n \n <\/div>\n \n\n <\/div>\n <\/section> \n\n\n\n\n\n

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What are the Benefits of Spinal Cord Stimulation?<\/h2>\n

One of the significant advantages of spinal cord stimulation is that it allows individuals to manage their pain without relying heavily on medications, which may carry side effects and limitations. SCS can potentially reduce pain severity, improve physical functioning, and enhance overall quality of life for suitable candidates.<\/p>\n\n

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