What is spinal cord stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation refers to a surgical method of easing chronic pain that doesn’t respond to more traditional treatments. This treatment involves having a spinal cord stimulator surgically implanted in the body in order to deliver electric currents directly to the spinal cord. These currents are considered mild yet strong enough to reduce pain. A spinal cord stimulator works by disrupting pain signals from getting to the brain, although it doesn’t treat the cause of these pain signals.
Is a spinal cord stimulator effective?
Spinal cord stimulation offers an effective form of treatment for sciatica linked to spinal stenosis, arthritis, and other conditions that affect the sciatic nerve. It can also be used effectively for failed back surgery syndrome, multiple sclerosis, and complex regional pain syndrome. Those who undergo this procedure usually have pain relief for long periods of time. Some patients experience long-term pain relief for many years.
Is a spinal cord stimulator safe?
Spinal cord stimulation is considered safe for many individuals. However, there are some exceptions. Those who have an underlying condition that could increase the risk of complications, such as a bleeding disorder, might not be able to have this procedure done. Dr. Adebayo goes over the risks of this procedure with each patient in order to determine if it’s the right treatment for them. There are certain risks associated with this treatment, including hemorrhage, allergic responses, weakness, changes in stimulation, cerebrospinal fluid leak, and battery leakage.
Am I a good candidate for spinal cord stimulation?
Candidates who are considered suitable for having spinal cord stimulation include those who have been experiencing chronic pain in the lower back and leg for longer than 12 months. Those who have had unsuccessful spinal surgeries performed to relieve pain are also generally considered good candidates for a spinal cord stimulator. Candidates must also have no dependency on pain relievers and no evidence of depression or other emotional disorders.
How do I recover from spinal cord stimulation surgery?
Patients who have had spinal cord stimulation surgery done usually have to limit their activities for a certain period of time and gradually resume them. They must also take care of the incision area to prevent infections from forming and to promote healing.
