Chronic pain affects millions worldwide, often hindering daily activities and diminishing quality of life. Despite this, hope remains through neurostimulation, also known as spinal cord stimulation (SCS) therapy—a respected and effective pain management technique used by physicians for over five decades.
At the Florida Spine and Pain Institute, we specialize in the latest form of SCS treatment using BurstDR™ technology. This advanced treatment is designed to specifically target chronic pain, providing relief from both the physical discomfort and emotional distress that chronic pain can cause.
Designed to replicate the brain’s natural pain management processes, BurstDR™ stimulation employs gentle electrical pulses. These pulses modify the pain signals as they move from the spinal cord to the brain, and clinical studies have proven that they effectively provide superior pain relief, even in small doses.
Continue reading for more information on SCS and to discover how you could benefit from this advanced pain-relief technology.
What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation & How Does It Work?
When an injury or trauma occurs, the body’s pain receptors transmit signals to the brain, which recognizes these signals as pain. A range of factors, including nerve damage from injuries, health conditions, or surgeries, can lead to chronic pain.
SCS is a popular treatment option for various conditions and pains related to the back. This treatment involves a small device (implantable pulse generator or IPG) which is placed in the body along with thin, insulated wires called leads. When your system is turned on, the generator sends mild electrical pulses through the leads to nerves along your spinal cord to reduce the level of pain you feel.
Who Can Benefit from Spinal Cord Stimulation?
SCS is best suited for individuals who haven’t found relief through conventional treatments like physical therapy, spinal injections, or medications and may include those who have undergone unsuccessful surgeries.
Ideal candidates typically experience:
- Chronic back and leg pain
- Neuropathic or nerve-related pain
- Failed back surgery syndrome
- Limited surgical options
- Positive response to trial stimulation
Conditions often treated with SCS:
- Persistent back pain
- Intense leg pain
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Complex regional pain syndrome
- Post-herpetic neuralgia
What are the Advantages of the SCS Systems Offered by Florida Spine and Pain Institute?
- Familiar Technology: Easily control your SCS system using an Apple digital device connected via Bluetooth wireless.
- Recharge-Free: Enjoy pain relief without frequent recharging thanks to a battery that lasts up to 10 years in low-dose settings.
- Low-Energy Therapy: Traditional SCS devices might produce a tingling sensation. However, advanced low-energy therapy can reduce or eliminate this sensation by mimicking natural brain patterns, providing more comfortable and effective pain management.
- MRI Ready: Our SCS systems are compatible with various medical imaging techniques, including MRIs, ensuring safety during such procedures.
- Multi-Site Pain Relief: Customizable therapy offers broad coverage, providing tailored relief for up to six pain areas with a single device.
- BurstDR™ stimulation: Provides superior relief from pain and its associated suffering, compared to traditional neurostimulation therapy. It also reduces or eliminates the tingling sensation felt with traditional neurostimulation.
Try It First with a Temporary Evaluation
A key benefit of spinal cord stimulation is the option for a temporary evaluation before committing to a permanent implant. This trial allows you to test the system’s pain management effectiveness.
During this phase, your doctor will assess if you are a suitable candidate for this therapy.
The evaluation period enables you to experience the following:
- Significant pain relief
- Enhanced ability to perform daily activities
- Improved sleep patterns
The system can be permanently implanted if the trial proves successful and you decide to proceed. It’s important to discuss the potential risks involved with surgical procedures, such as infections or swelling, with your healthcare provider.
Achieving an Improved Quality of Life
SCS is not just a regular treatment; it is a life-changing option that can help people return to a more active and fulfilling life free from the restraints of chronic pain. By using personalized therapy, SCS provides a sustainable and customizable solution for those who have tried multiple options for relief without success.
This innovative approach continues to be supported by ongoing research. It has proven to be a valuable tool in the management of debilitating pain, highlighting its role as a key component of comprehensive pain management strategies.
Spinal Cord Stimulation is Available at Our Davenport, Clermont, and Orlando, Florida locations.
For more information about how Spinal Cord Stimulation can benefit you, contact Dr. Javier Placer and his team of professionals.
Begin your journey toward pain relief by scheduling a consultation.
