|
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) was developed for the treatment of neuropathic (nerve) pain. This pain is typically associated with injury to nerves or metabolic problems such as diabetes and is described by patients as burning, shooting, or tingling. Nerve pain typically does not respond well to narcotic pain medications. When it was first used in patients, SCS was more or less restricted to the treatment of pain of the arms or legs. Recent advances in technology have made it more useful for the management of neuropathic pain in other areas of the body, such as in the back, neck, or pelvis. Neurostimulation covers up or masks the pain by interfering with the pain sensation going up to the brain without interrupting with other sensations. SCS delivers low level electrical stimulation to the spinal cord. Pain is masked by changing the sensation from painful to a gentler, more soothing tingling sensation. Most studies indicate that, in carefully selected patients, SCS can produce at least 50% pain relief in at least 50%.
As with any surgery, there are risks associated with implanting these devices. Complications from SCS may include painful stimulation, loss of pain relief and certain surgical risks (e.g., infection). Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits of neurostimulation with your doctor. |
|
|
For additional Information, please see the following articles:
Spinal Cord Stimulation for Patients Spinal Cord Stimulation for Practitioners Changing how your brain senses pain |