What is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation is a medical procedure that involves implanting a small device in the body to alleviate chronic pain. The device delivers electrical impulses to the spinal cord to disrupt pain signals before they can reach the brain, which can help reduce or eliminate pain. The procedure involves inserting small electrodes into the epidural space of the spinal cord and attaching them to a small battery-operated generator implanted under the skin. The patient can control the level of stimulation through a handheld device that communicates with the generator. Spinal cord stimulation is often used as a treatment option for chronic back or neck pain, as well as pain caused by nerve damage, failed back surgery syndrome, and other conditions.
How Does Spinal Cord Stimulation Work?
Dealing with back, neck, or radiating pain that limits your daily activities and time with family is no laughing matter. If conservative treatments like injections and physical therapy have failed, it may seem like there are no other options. However, Advanced Pain Institute of Texas in Lewisville can offer lasting relief through a minimally invasive procedure called spinal cord stimulation.
Led by Dr. John Broadnax and Dr. Eric Anderson, the team at Advanced Pain Institute of Texas can help alleviate pain caused by nerve damage, direct spinal cord injuries, and other issues. Spinal cord stimulation involves using an X-ray machine to thread a small catheter-like lead into the epidural space between the spinal cord and vertebrae. Once the leads are secured in place, they’re programmed to cover the areas where the patient experiences pain.
Dr. Broadnax explained that before the actual therapy, a test is conducted to see if the patient experiences at least 50% pain relief, increased activity, and improved sleep. If the test is successful, the device is implanted under the skin with a small incision, and the stimulator is programmed to provide relief.
Spinal cord stimulation is an exciting therapy that can provide relief where other treatments have failed. To learn more about how Advanced Pain Institute of Texas can help you, visit their website or call 972-866-4246. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
