Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Spinal Cord Stimulation for Chronic Pain – How it works
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Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is an advanced treatment for chronic pain that uses mild electrical signals to modify pain perception before it reaches the brain. It is often used for conditions like post-laminectomy syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), diabetic neuropathy, and persistent pain after back, knee, or shoulder surgery. SCS works by placing small electrodes near the spinal cord, which deliver controlled electrical pulses to disrupt pain signals. Different stimulation patterns, or waveforms, allow for customized pain relief. Traditional tonic stimulation produces a steady pulse, while burst stimulation mimics natural nerve signaling. High-frequency stimulation (such as 10 kHz) provides pain relief without tingling sensations, and closed-loop systems adjust stimulation in real time based on spinal cord activity. Open-loop systems provide consistent stimulation but require manual adjustments. Before permanent implantation, a trial period is required to determine if SCS provides at least 50% pain relief. Research shows that a successful trial strongly predicts long-term effectiveness. For patients who respond well, SCS can provide long-term pain relief, reduce medication use, and improve function. If chronic pain persists despite other treatments, talk to your doctor to see if SCS is right for you.
FAQs
How are the electrical pulses customized in Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Customized pain relief in SCS is achieved through different stimulation patterns or waveforms. Traditional tonic stimulation delivers steady pulses, burst stimulation imitates natural nerve signaling, while high-frequency stimulation can provide pain relief without creating tingling sensations. Closed-loop systems in SCS adjust the stimulation in real-time based on spinal cord activity, whereas open-loop systems provide consistent stimulation but require manual adjustments.
What conditions can Spinal Cord Stimulation be used to treat?
SCS is commonly used to treat chronic pain conditions such as post-laminectomy syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), diabetic neuropathy, as well as persistent pain following surgeries on the back, knee, or shoulder.
What is Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) and how does it work?
Spinal Cord Stimulation is an advanced treatment for chronic pain which involves the use of mild electrical signals to modify the way pain is perceived before it reaches the brain. This is achieved by placing small electrodes near the spinal cord to deliver controlled electrical pulses that disrupt pain signals, providing relief to the patient.
What is the purpose of the trial period before the permanent implantation of an SCS device?
The trial period is essential to determine whether SCS can provide at least 50% pain relief for the patient. A successful trial is a strong predictor of long-term effectiveness, ensuring that patients who respond well to the trial proceed with permanent implantation.
Why should patients consider Spinal Cord Stimulation for chronic pain management?
Patients should consider SCS as it can offer long-term pain relief, reduce the need for medication, and improve overall function and quality of life, especially if chronic pain persists despite other treatments. Consulting with a doctor can help determine if SCS is a suitable option.