Why is Spinal Cord Stimulation Important?

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a minimally invasive procedure that has the potential to improve pain, spasticity, and other symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Livingston Spinal Cord Stimulation treatment involves placing one or more electrodes in the spine to send electrical impulses to the brain to help relieve pain, spasticity, fatigue, and other symptoms.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The procedure takes about an hour and can be done on an outpatient basis. There are no specific pre-operative tests needed for patients who have not had any other kind of disease. Patients usually recover within 3-5 days after surgery.

Here are the benefits of SCS.

What are the benefits of SCS?

Relieves pain

Spinal cord stimulation is an effective treatment for chronic pain in patients with spinal cord injuries, including those with incomplete lesions. In a recent study, researchers found that SCS was safe and effective at relieving chronic neuropathic pain in adults with spinal cord injury.

Improved function

SCS can also improve function in people who have lost their ability to move due to injury or disease. This may include people who have suffered an incomplete spinal cord injury and those who have had a stroke or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Besides, SCS may improve walking ability after TBI or stroke.

No refills needed

Unlike other treatments for incontinence and bladder control, patients do not need to return to their physician for refills or follow-up appointments. They can continue using the device indefinitely without fear of having it removed because no drugs are involved. This means that patients do not have to worry about being dependent on their physicians or taking medications every few months.

How does SCS work?

Spinal cord stimulation works by sending electrical impulses through wires placed in your back or neck, intravenously or epidurally. These electrical impulses activate nerves in your spinal cord and brain stem, which relay signals to muscles throughout your body. SCS is a treatment for chronic pain. It uses electrical impulses to reduce pain, improve movement and prevent the return of symptoms. SCS stimulation activates your central nervous system, which leads to an improvement in your condition and an ongoing reduction in pain.

The procedure involves inserting a thin wire through the skin at specific locations on or near your spine. These wires are connected to a pulse generator that sends electrical impulses through your spine to stimulate the nerves responsible for sending pain signals to your brain.

Spinal cord stimulation is an effective, long-term treatment for chronic pain and other symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). The device is surgically implanted in your lower back and sends electrical impulses through a wire connected to a small battery pack on your belt that pulses at a rate of 80 times per minute.

The pulses stimulate nerve fibers in your spinal cord. This can reduce or even eliminate painful spasms and burning sensations that are part of the condition known as secondary progressive MS. If you are struggling with chronic pain, SamWell Institute for Pain Management professionals can recommend a suitable treatment option. Schedule your consultation today.