About Neuromodulation

Neuromodulation encompasses a number of treatment modalities that exert their effect by affecting the nervous system, typically using implantable techniques. It can include treatments that involve the stimulation of nerves in the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, autonomic nervous system, or deep within the brain (specific groupings of cell nuclei) that lead to the “modulation” of nervous system activity. These stimulation devices are most commonly used to treat nerve pain but can be used for a variety of indications such as Parkinson’s disease, OCD, headaches, seizures, overactive bladder (OAB), neurogenic bladder, and an expanding list of medical conditions. Neuromodulation also encompasses drug delivery systems that most commonly infuse medications into the spinal canal to treat pain and spasticity for conditions such as cancer, multiple sclerosis and failed back syndrome.

One of the primary allures of neuromodulation stems from the fact these therapies result in reversible alterations of the nervous system as supposed to “ablative” or resective procedures which modulate the nervous system permanently due to the destructive nature of the procedure.

Implanted devices include neural stimulator electrodes, battery generators (like a pacemaker) and drug delivery devices such as pumps. The world of neuromodulation encompasses acute and chronic pain syndromes, movement disorders, dystonia and spasticity, as well as epilepsy. An emerging subset of neuromodulation devices includes neuroprosthetics which will advance the rehab potentials for severely injured patients.

The neuromodulation community is based on a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of complex medical conditions and encompasses a diverse group of providers including neurosurgeons, anesthesiologists, pain specialists, and rehab physicians. In addition clinicians closely collaborate with industry and basic science researchers to help advance the field. Additional components of the multidisciplinary team include neurologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, primary care physicians, and physical therapist. We have also included a helpful article below highlighting the 10 most important things to know about neuromodulation.

10 Things to Know About Neuromodulation

10 Cosas Que Debes Saber Sobre Neuromodulación