Spinal cord stimulators can relieve pain by blocking neurotransmitters and are approved by the FDA for pain management. They work best for pain caused by injury or nerve damage. Candidates must undergo a trial implant before permanent placement, and complications can occur. Patients may require fewer medications and enjoy a better quality of life with less pain. However, patients should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor.
A spinal cord stimulator is a device that helps relieve pain by blocking certain neurotransmitters. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the implantation of spinal cord stimulators for pain management. Doctors often suggest this device for patients with a history of chronic pain problems.
Most studies show that spinal cord stimulator works best on pain caused by injury or nerve damage. Some spinal conditions that the stimulator usually helps include spinal damage, misaligned vertebrae, or degenerative disease. Applicants with back problems caused by work injuries often get relief from this procedure. Doctors can use it to treat other conditions such as migraines and chronic regional pain syndrome.
A physical and psychological exam is required for people considering this procedure. Candidates with pacemakers, certain infections, or significant psychological problems may not be eligible for the spinal cord stimulator. Some blood conditions can also rule out a person as a candidate.
Stimulator candidates will have a trial implant before the permanent spinal cord stimulator is placed. Most doctors recommend the trial procedure to make sure the candidate doesn’t develop complications. If the patient has a successful trial, the permanent stimulator is implanted.
The stimulator works with wires surgically placed under the skin, followed by implantation of the stimulator. During the first trial, the stimulator is adjusted according to the individual’s pain level. When permanently placed, the stimulator is ready to block the pain by sending a small current of electricity through the wires to the spine.
After spinal cord stimulator surgery, doctors may recommend spinal rehabilitation and physical therapy. Sometimes, complications can develop after the stimulator is implanted. Some complications include spinal fluid leaks, paralysis, and nerve damage.
Since spinal cord stimulators are electromagnetic, the use of other magnetic devices in the vicinity of the patient can be dangerous. Machines that could be dangerous include X-ray machines and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment. Most of the time, patients are asked to carry ID cards with them. In an emergency, this card can quickly inform staff that certain magnetic devices should not be used.
There are many benefits to getting a spinal cord stimulator. Aside from the important benefit of pain relief, patients may require fewer medications. Successful beneficiaries can enjoy a better quality of life by having less pain. Most people are back to normal activity in about six to eight weeks.
As with any surgical procedure, a patient should talk to their doctor about the risks and benefits of a spinal cord stimulator. Doctors estimate that spinal cord stimulator can provide only a moderate amount of pain relief for a patient. For patients experiencing a severe amount of pain, any relief is often a huge improvement.
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