Innovations in Spinal Cord Stimulation for Pain Relief
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has long been a cornerstone of pain management for patients with intractable pain. However, recent innovations in SCS technology are pushing the boundaries of what this treatment can achieve, offering patients better pain relief, more control, and fewer side effects.
This post will explore the latest advancements in spinal cord stimulation and what they mean for patients dealing with chronic pain conditions.
1. What is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
SCS works by delivering mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord, which interrupts pain signals before they reach the brain. Patients experience these impulses as a tingling sensation (paresthesia), which masks the pain. SCS is often used for conditions like failed back surgery syndrome, chronic leg pain, and complex regional pain syndrome.
2. Recent Advancements in Spinal Cord Stimulation
• Burst Stimulation: Unlike traditional SCS, which delivers continuous pulses, burst stimulation sends electrical signals in short bursts, more closely mimicking natural nerve patterns. This has been shown to provide better pain relief and reduce the tingling sensation associated with traditional SCS.
• High-Frequency Stimulation: New devices like HF10 therapy deliver high-frequency electrical impulses, which eliminate the tingling sensation altogether while still providing effective pain relief. This makes SCS more comfortable for patients who found the tingling bothersome.
• Closed-Loop Stimulation: Closed-loop SCS systems can adjust the level of stimulation in real time based on the patient’s movements, ensuring optimal pain relief regardless of activity level.
3. Improved Outcomes for Patients
These innovations have not only improved the effectiveness of spinal cord stimulation but also made it more patient-friendly. With better pain relief, fewer side effects, and greater control over their therapy, patients are able to return to more normal daily activities.
Spinal cord stimulation continues to evolve, offering hope to patients with chronic pain. If you’re living with persistent pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments, you should consult with a pain management specialist for a proper diagnosis and to establish a treatment plan. you can also contact my office for a confidential consultation.