Nerve
Stimulation

Nerve stimulation therapy in pain management, often referred to as neuromodulation or spinal cord stimulation (SCS), is a treatment that uses electrical impulses to modulate or block pain signals before they reach the brain. This therapy is particularly useful for chronic pain conditions that have not responded well to other treatments. Basically the nerve stimulation confuses the nerve signal so when it reaches your brain it will not be interpreted as pain.

Common Modes of Nerve Stimulation:

1. Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS):

A small device is implanted under the skin, usually in the lower back, which sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses interfere with pain signals, reducing the sensation of pain before it reaches the brain. Patients control the stimulation through a handheld device, allowing them to adjust the intensity based on their pain levels. SCS is typically used for chronic back pain, leg pain (such as that caused by sciatica), and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).

2. Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS):

Similar to SCS but focuses on specific peripheral nerves outside the spinal cord. Electrodes are placed near the affected nerve, and electrical impulses are delivered to block pain signals from that nerve. PNS is often used for localized pain, such as headaches, facial pain, or pain following surgery.

3. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS):

A non-invasive form of nerve stimulation where electrodes are placed on the skin over the painful area. Electrical impulses are delivered through the skin, helping to reduce pain by stimulating the nerves and promoting the release of endorphins. TENS is used for various pain conditions, including musculoskeletal pain and nerve pain.

Benefits Nerve Stimulation:

Nerve stimulation therapy offers an alternative to medications, reducing the need for opioids or other drugs. It provides long-term pain relief for many patients, improving their quality of life. The therapy is adjustable and reversible, allowing it to be tailored to each patient’s needs. Nerve stimulation therapy can offer hope to patients with chronic pain by providing significant pain reduction and improved functionality where other treatments may have failed.

Candidates For Nerve Stimulation:

Patients with Chronic Back and Leg Pain: Individuals with chronic pain conditions like failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) or sciatica that have not responded to surgery or conservative treatments.

Patients with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Those suffering from severe, persistent pain after injury or surgery, often in the arms or legs.

Patients with Neuropathic Pain: Individuals with nerve damage or conditions like diabetic neuropathy who have not found relief with medications or other treatments.

Patients with Pain from Peripheral Nerve Damage: Those experiencing localized nerve pain after surgery or trauma, especially when the pain persists despite other interventions.

Patients with Post-Surgical Pain: Individuals who continue to have chronic pain following surgeries like spinal fusion or joint replacement, particularly when traditional pain relief methods have failed.