Spinal Cord Stimulation for Pain Management Q&A

Spinal cord stimulation is performed through the implantation of a medical device by a healthcare provider to address a diverse spectrum of pain types stemming from various conditions or sources. It is primarily employed for the management of chronic and intense pain.
 
These medical devices are available in various forms and can serve as an alternative to other treatment options, such as opioids, which carry the risk of addiction.
 
The fundamental function of spinal cord stimulation is to intercept and obstruct pain signals before they can reach the brain. This is achieved through a compact device that administers electrical pulses to the spinal cord. When conventional treatments yield undesirable side effects or fail to deliver adequate pain relief, spinal cord stimulation may emerge as a viable option, either independently or in conjunction with other therapeutic modalities.

The treatment mechanism of a spinal cord stimulator involves a surgical placement of the device beneath the skin, from where it emits a gentle electric current directed at the spinal cord. Delicate wires transmit the current from a pulse generator through to the nerve fibers that are located within the spinal cord.
 
Patients are able to activate electrical impulses when they experience pain. Upon activation, the spinal cord stimulator initiates stimulation of the nerves in the region where the pain is localized. The reduction of pain is achieved by altering and concealing the pain signals, preventing them from reaching the brain.

The effectiveness of spinal cord stimulators in relieving pain significantly enhances patients’ capacity to engage in activities that were previously limited by chronic pain.
 
Chronic pain is capable of having a profound impact on an individual’s daily life and physical and emotional well-being. The success rate of spinal cord stimulators varies and is influenced by factors such as the specific condition being treated, and the type of device used.
 
Consequently, each case is distinct, and specialists at San Antonio Pain Consultants work closely with patients to establish realistic expectations for their procedure. Achieving optimal results also necessitates early implantation. The amount of time that has transpired between the inception of chronic pain syndrome and the implantation procedure directly impacts the efficacy of spinal cord stimulators.
 
Addressing persistent pain can be a challenging endeavor, nonetheless, spinal cord stimulation therapy has demonstrated success in more than half of patients who have undergone the procedure. Doctors utilize spinal cord stimulation therapy to treat patients with a diverse range of conditions who have not found relief through other treatment methods.

Spinal cord stimulation is primarily considered when other non-surgical pain management approaches have proven ineffective in providing adequate relief.
 
It serves as a treatment or management option for various forms of chronic pain, with a notable focus on chronic neuropathic pain conditions. This treatment is generally regarded as safe, owing to its minimally invasive and reversible nature.
 
The decision regarding the suitability of a spinal cord stimulator is a two-step process conducted in collaboration with specialists, such as those at San Antonio Pain Consultants.

The initial step involves a temporary trial to assess the device’s efficacy in reducing pain levels. Spinal cord stimulation has the potential to enhance overall quality of life, improve sleep, and decrease the reliance on pain medications. It is often employed in conjunction with other pain management strategies, including medications, exercise, physical therapy, and more.
 
Spinal cord stimulation therapy operates by intercepting and neutralizing pain signals before they can reach the brain. This treatment approach has been utilized to alleviate chronic pain stemming from various causes, including injuries, neurological issues, musculoskeletal conditions, and more.

To determine whether you are a suitable candidate. Spinal cord stimulation for pain management is available at San Antonio Pain Consultants P.A. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are located at 3903 Wiseman Blvd, Ste 117, San Antonio, TX 78251. We serve patients from San Antonio TX, Helotes TX, Alamo Ranch TX, Leon Valley TX, Shavano Park TX, Balcones Heights TX, Fair Oaks TX, Fair Oaks Ranch TX, Castroville TX, and surrounding areas.