Imagine a world where chronic pain isn’t a daily struggle. Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is making this a reality for many, offering a new way to handle pain that’s changing lives.
Every year, about 34,000 people worldwide get SCS devices put in, and experts like the International Neuromodulation Society say it really works for certain kinds of pain and doesn’t break the bank. We’re going to take a closer look at how SCS helps, share stories from people who’ve tried it, and peek at the latest in this tech.
Reading about Spinal Cord Stimulation could open up a new door for those feeling stuck in pain. This short guide is here to light the way for people in pain and doctors alike, showing how SCS can be a game-changer in managing pain, offering a spark of hope and a fresh perspective.
Jump to:
- How Does a Spinal Cord Stimulator Work & How It Can Treat Your Spine?
- How Long Can the Device Stay Inside Your Body?
- Permanent Restrictions and Lifestyle Considerations
- Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Cord Stimulators
- Conclusion
How Does a Spinal Cord Stimulator Work & How It Can Treat Your Spine?
A spinal cord stimulator is a complex device. It is designed to ease chronic pain by sending controlled electric current to the spinal cord. It has three main parts — the leads, generator, and programming device.
After a local anesthetic is administered, thin wires carry current from a pulse generator to the nerve fibers of the spinal cord — this is to modify pain signals before they arrive at the brain.
These thin wires (electrodes) are placed in the epidural space near the spinal cord — an important part of installing a SCS for neuropathic pain. The electrodes are connected to an implanted device that resembles a pacemaker.
It is placed beneath the skin in the abdominal or gluteal region. Patients can modify the strength of electrical impulses using a remote control for the desired level of nerve stimulation. This lets them manage their pain as needed, with the assistance of a neurosurgeon.
If you’re wondering how does a spinal cord stimulator work, the science behind it suggests that it works in two main ways:
- It blocks pain signal transmission to the brain and changes the brain’s pain perception. Traditional systems replace pain with a light tingling sensation known as paresthesia.
- Newer models offer sub-perception neurostimulation. It produces relief without the tingling, making it a more comfortable option for many.
Who Benefits from Spinal Cord Stimulation?
SCS helps people who haven’t found relief from regular pain treatments in long trial periods. These include pain medications and less invasive therapies. Ideal candidates often suffer from conditions such as:
- Failed back surgery syndrome
- Chronic back pain or neck pain
- Nerve pain, including diabetic neuropathy
- Complex regional pain syndrome
- Arachnoiditis
How Long Can the Device Stay Inside Your Body?
The key concerns for patients and practitioners are the effectiveness and longevity of a Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS). With the advancements in medical technology, the lifespan of these devices has seen remarkable improvements, ensuring patients experience sustained pain relief over many years.
Due to battery depletion, non-rechargeable SCS systems require surgical replacement within 2- 5 years. Rechargeable models have a much longer lifespan. They can serve patients for over ten years with diligent charging.
Many critical factors influence the lifespan of an SCS device. These include the patient’s usage patterns, the device’s specific battery type, and its programming complexity.
When to Replace Your SCS Device
Knowing when an SCS device needs replacement or maintenance is crucial for uninterrupted pain management and sedation. Key indicators include a noticeable decline in the pain relief provided or the need for more frequent recharging than previously necessary.
Most modern SCS units have alert systems. These can alert the user when the battery is low or if the system needs professional evaluation. The alerts come through the remote control or programming device.
Permanent Restrictions and Lifestyle Considerations
The journey towards pain relief with a Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) is transformative and rewarding. However, using this device in daily life requires mindful adjustments. It also requires adherence to precautions to keep it effective and ensure patient safety.
1. Take Note of Your Activity Limitations
After the permanent implantation of an SCS, patients can expect to return to a semblance of their normal routine. However, they will need a few modifications. Avoid high-impact activities, like contact sports, extreme sports, or heavy lifting. Be cautious or avoid them altogether. These activities risk dislodging the device or shifting the leads. This could harm the system’s pain management capabilities.
Driving is another area of caution. This is especially true after turning on the device. The SCS is beneficial for pain. But, its sensations may distract drivers at first. Learning about the device’s effects in a safe place would be best. Do this before trying to drive.
2. Watch Out for Electromagnetic Interference
Patients with an SCS should be very careful with electromagnetic interference. They should watch out for machinery and devices that emit strong electromagnetic fields.
Everyday household electronics are generally not risky. However, larger equipment in industrial settings or certain medical devices, such as MRI machines, may affect an SCS. Before any medical procedure, patients should tell healthcare providers about their SCS. This will allow for necessary precautions.
3. Regularly Monitor Your Device
Ensuring the long-term success of spinal cord stimulation physical therapy goes beyond the initial adjustment period. Regularly monitoring the device’s functionality, battery life, and overall condition is important.
Most modern SCS devices have diagnostic features. They help with monitoring. But, these technologies do not replace the value of medical advice and examination.
Scheduled follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are essential for routine checks and programming adjustments and addressing any concerns or complications that may arise. In these sessions, you can review the patient’s pain plan. You can then adjust the SCS settings to improve outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Cord Stimulators
Can you live a normal life with an SCS?
Absolutely. Most patients have much less pain as a side effect. This improves their quality of life and makes daily activities more bearable – whether they’re dealing with peripheral vascular disease or spinal cord injury.
What can’t you do with an SCS?
You should avoid high-impact activities that risk dislodging the device and stay clear of environments with strong electromagnetic fields.
Can I undergo MRI scans with an SCS?
It depends on your specific device. Some newer models are MRI-compatible under certain conditions but always consult your doctor beforehand.
Conclusion
Spinal cord stimulation is a big advance in pain management. It gives new hope and better life quality to chronic pain patients. SCS delivers targeted electrical pulses to the spinal cord. It can greatly reduce pain perceptions, letting many reclaim their lives from chronic pain.
At Uprite, we specialize in personalized care, ensuring that treatments like SCS are tailored to each patient’s needs. If you’re struggling with chronic pain and conventional treatment options have fallen short, please contact us. Together, we can determine if spinal cord stimulation is right for you. Fill out our evaluation form on our homepage to start your journey towards a pain-free life.
