Feeling Out The Neurostimulator For Back Pain
Over the years, back pain has been one of the biggest health challenges for doctors and patients alike. Several surgical and non-surgical options help, including neurostimulators. Neurostimulators may work well for patients with severe back pain that has been unresponsive to treatment. If the neurostimulator is available to the clinic, a doctor may raise the possibility of a trial. Neurostimulators are small devices with a wire, battery, and generator, similar to a pacemaker. The goal of the stimulator is to disrupt pain signals sent to the brain. The patient uses the device for a short period, about 5-7 days, to see if there is a significant improvement in pain.
Installing the neurostimulator
The surgical team starts with injecting fluid to increase the epidural space in the spine. A local anesthetic ensures the patient feels no pain during the process. The surgeon then inserts 1 or 2 thin wires, called a lead, using a catheter. The lead may run along the length of several vertebrae, depending on the source of pain. The wire then connects to the stimulator and battery outside of the body.
Should you consider a trial?
This is a quick, outpatient procedure with minimal discomfort. The patient must then record the effectiveness of the device for the next 5-7 days. If the device significantly reduces pain, there is an argument for a permanent device. The permanent device is installed in the body and can last for several years. Still on the fence about using a neurostimulator? Here are 4 reasons to consider this revolutionary treatment.
1. Nothing else seems to work
The medical team and patient will try all non-surgical means to bring relief. This runs the gamut of medication, steroid injections, and physical therapy. Some patients even try other specialized treatments like chiropractic care, massage therapy, or acupuncture. While these are potent options, some patients still get no relief. Trying the neurostimulator can often be a last resort for long-term relief.
2. There is a high success rate
The goal of the stimulation is to restrict pain signals from going to the brain. In most cases, the device can make that happen. Most doctors believe that at least a 50% reduction in pain is a successful trial. Research shows as many as 80% of patients experiencing long-term relief. Given that the spinal cord stimulators are offered to a specific group of people, these are great numbers.
3. You want to avoid significant surgery
Doctors will recommend that some patients undergo surgery to reduce pain. Surgery can be in the form of removing a disc, bone or having a spinal fusion. Some patients choose not to turn to surgery, often due to personal reasons. Surgery is also not without risk. The surgery may fail, or the patient may suffer complications. One can argue the stimulator installation is no more invasive than an epidural injection. The device may bring relief without the stress of potential surgery.
4. You can’t have further surgery
On the other end of the spectrum, a patient may have already had surgery. However, what if the procedure brings no further relief? Based on the type of surgery, the surgeon may advise another approach. At this point, a neurostimulator may be the way to have a better quality of life without going under the knife again.
Ready for your trial?
Giving the machine a test run can be a life-changing event. Back pain can restrict work, social activities, and the overall quality of life. If all other options fail, consider the stimulator. A successful trial means that patients can get several years of relief with a permanent implant. For more information, speak with a pain management specialist.
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“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
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