Spinal Cord Stimulation for Low Back Pain

Chronic low back pain is a common condition affecting many people in the United States. Low back pain can affect quality of life and prevent meaningful functioning daily. There are numerous treatment options available, including medications and surgical interventions. However, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has become one of the promising treatment options for patients who have not found any relief through traditional methods. Today, we will discuss the advantages of spinal cord stimulation and how it can help alleviate chronic low back pain.

What Is SCS?

Spinal cord stimulation is considered a minimally invasive procedure where a small device is implanted initially temporarily and then later permanently. The device delivers electrical impulses to the spinal cord, interrupting pain signals that reach the brain. It modulates pain perception and provides significant relief for chronic low back pain. As alluded to before, the advantage of this system is that you can try it for a short period and return to the clinic, knowing if this is something you wish to be implanted.

Who Is the Ideal Patient for SCS? 

Spinal cord stimulation is recommended for patients who have not found adequate alleviation of pain from conservative treatments such as medications or physical therapy, interventions such as epidural steroid injections, or even surgical interventions, including spinal decompression or fusion. Before the spinal cord stimulation trial, patients undergo psychological treatment to ensure that expectations are met. Subsequently, blood tests and Imaging are completed. After the authority's discussion with your provider, the patient chooses whether to consider a spinal cord stimulation trial before considering an implantation.

What Does the Procedure Entail?

Spine quote cord stimulation is unique because you can try it 1st for about 7 to 10 days. It is done in 2 stages, and during the trial phase, a temporary electrode is placed near the area that provides the most effectiveness for lower back pain. Once the patient comes back and reports the benefit or lack of benefit, the decision is made between the patient and the provider as to whether it is reasonable for a permanent implant. The permanent device is fully programmable. Patients interact very closely with a representative who will help reprogram the device until it is at the proper setting for maximum pain relief. It is fully customizable.

What Are the Advantages of Spinal Cord Stimulation?

It can provide significant pain relief for patients with chronic low back pain and chronic neck pain. It allows for the reduction of pain medications. Spinal cord stimulation helps alleviate the pain, regain mobility, and allow patients to engage in physical activities so that the muscles that have been weakened can be strengthened, improving quality of life.

Spinal cord stimulation is a non-pharmacological approach to chronic low back pain, allowing the patient to either reduce or eliminate the use of any opioids.

The treatment is customizable and programmed, allowing adjustments to the setting to better suit and improve the patients’ needs.

In conclusion, spinal cord stimulation is a treatment option for individuals who have chronic low back pain and have not responded to either conventional therapies or have already had surgeries that have not provided any pain relief.

Make an appointment at Maasumi Headache and Spine Care to discuss Whether you qualify for a spinal cord stimulation trial.