Finding Success with SCS: Neuromodulation for Chronic Back Pain
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Understanding Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a persistent issue that affects many adults. According to a 2023 study by the National Institute of Health (NIH), 21% of American adults experience chronic pain at some point in their lives. Defined as pain lasting for more than three months, chronic pain can appear in various forms—ranging from joint pain due to arthritis to cancer-related pain around tumors. Individuals who have had injuries or diseases are more susceptible to chronic pain. Besides its physical toll, chronic pain can significantly impact mental health, leading to higher rates of depression and anxiety. With chronic pain being one of the leading reasons patients seek medical help, it has become a significant public health concern.
Common Treatments for Chronic Pain
Treatments for chronic pain are as varied as the condition itself. While common approaches like diet changes, physical therapy, and medications are often used, each comes with challenges. Dietary adjustments may take time to yield results, physical therapy requires strict adherence, and long-term medication use can lead to liver damage. Fortunately, modern medicine has introduced advanced therapies, including neuromodulation techniques, offering a new frontier for chronic pain relief.
What is Neuromodulation Therapy?
Neuromodulation therapy involves using electrical currents to target the nervous system and block pain signals from reaching the brain. These electric impulses can help reduce pain and improve mobility. Neuromodulation techniques are often employed through implanted devices that send electrical signals to specific areas of the body. The primary types of neuromodulation therapy include:
- Spinal cord stimulation (SCS)
- Deep brain stimulation
- Electroconvulsive therapy
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation
- Vagal nerve stimulation
What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator?
A spinal cord stimulator (SCS) is an implantable device designed to interrupt pain signals from reaching the brain. Acting like a substitute nerve, the SCS delivers electrical impulses that reduce the perception of pain, replacing it with a mild tingling sensation. This procedure is generally considered for patients who have not experienced sufficient relief from other treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, epidural injections, and nerve blocks. Although SCS involves surgical implantation, it has proven to be an effective option for many chronic pain sufferers.
The SCS Implantation Process
The process of getting an SCS involves two key stages: a trial phase and a permanent implantation. The SCS trial involves a temporary placement of the stimulator, where the patient tests the effectiveness of the device over 7 to 10 days. If the trial is successful and the patient experiences significant pain relief, a permanent device is implanted. The full implantation is performed as an outpatient procedure, typically taking around one to two hours. The permanent device is placed under the skin, with electrodes positioned along the spinal cord to deliver the necessary stimulation.
New Advancements in Spinal Cord Stimulators
Technological advances have significantly improved spinal cord stimulators in recent years. Innovations like higher-frequency stimulation allow for the treatment of a broader range of pain conditions while reducing the “pins and needles” sensation that some patients experience. Additionally, lead-less SCS devices are in clinical trials, offering the potential for more convenience and improved patient outcomes as this technology evolves.
Who Can Benefit from SCS?
Neuromodulation therapies, including Spinal Cord Stimulation , are typically recommended for individuals who have not found relief from more conventional treatment options. These patients may experience chronic lower back pain with radicular symptoms, such as burning or tingling sensations radiating into the legs, often resulting from conditions like spinal stenosis or failed back surgery syndrome. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider to discuss all available pain management solutions. Neuromodulation might be an excellent option for patients with persistent pain who have tried various forms of physical therapy, medications, and non-invasive pain management techniques without success.
At Ospina Medical, we offer cutting-edge treatments, including SCS trials, to help patients find relief from chronic pain. If you are struggling with pain that has not improved through traditional methods, our team, led by Dr. Matthew Kohler, is here to guide you through the process. Schedule a consultation to learn more about your pain management options and take the first step toward a better quality of life!
Written By: Sudheshna Thirunahari
Edited By: Camden Rowe
Medically Reviewed By: Matthew Kohler, MD