The Ultimate Guide to Spinal Cord Stimulator Information: Everything You Need to Know
Spinal cord stimulators (SCS) are medical devices used to ease chronic pain in patients who are not relieved by other treatments. These devices operate by sending an electrical signal to the spine, which blocks pain signals before they can reach the brain. If you are considering spinal cord stimulation, it is vital to know as much as possible before making an informed decision. In this article, we will provide you with in-depth information on everything you need to know about spinal cord stimulators.
How It Works
Spinal cord stimulation is a minimally invasive procedure that requires the placement of a small device, similar to a pacemaker, beneath the skin. Through this device, an electrical signal is delivered to the spinal cord to block pain signals. The SCS device is activated with a handheld remote, which permits the user to adjust the level of stimulation to the spinal cord.
The SCS can be programmed and personalized to fit the individual’s needs, and its effectiveness is mainly due to the gate control theory of pain. According to this theory, pain signals are transmitted in the spinal cord via neurological gates, the SCS operates by blocking these gates’ opening and closing based on the user’s settings.
Who is Eligible?
If you are living with chronic pain and conventional pain management approaches have failed, you may be eligible for spinal cord stimulation. However, eligibility criteria vary by doctor, and referral to a pain management specialist is essential. Your doctor will assess your medical history, as well as your overall health and pain management, to determine whether SCS is a viable treatment option.
Before your procedure, you will be required to enroll in comprehensive pain management programs and trial the device via an external power source over the course of several days. If pain relief is achieved, you may undergo surgery for a permanent implant.
Benefits and Risks
Spinal cord stimulators are an increasingly popular option for people living with chronic pain as a non-addictive alternative to pain medication. Relief from back pain, neck pain, sciatica pain, and neuropathic pain is possible with an SCS.
Additionally, SCS therapy is adjustable and programmable, and users can turn it off when it is not needed. Unlike invasive techniques, such as spinal surgery, SCS is less risky and offers the prospect of improving your quality of life.
However, there are potential risks as with any surgical procedure. Infections, lead migration, and device malfunction are potential risks, and individuals with bleeding disorders or seizure disorders should avoid this procedure.
Costs and Insurance
Although spinal cord stimulation is a long-term investment, there are considerable financial advantages to this treatment, particularly when compared to long-term opioid therapy. The expenses may fluctuate depending on the healthcare provider, insurance policy, location, type of device, and extra procedures, with an initial cost ranging between $30,000 to $50,000.
Some insurance policies may fully cover the implantation, but others may require patients to undergo a strict trial period or pay for some of the techniques used.
Conclusion
Spinal cord stimulation is an effective, minimally invasive technique that has demonstrated significant pain relief for individuals who have failed to respond to alternative pain relief strategies.
It is essential to speak to your doctor to determine the best course of action and decide if spinal cord stimulation is a viable treatment option for you. With the appropriate analysis, this innovative technique can provide long-term relief for chronic pain patients, appealing in both its effectiveness and adjustability.
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