When other treatments have not provided enough relief from chronic pain, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) offers another modality. This therapy does not cure the source of pain; instead, it works by changing the way your brain perceives it. For individuals who have struggled with persistent neuropathic pain, understanding how SCS functions is the first step toward exploring a new option. Here is more information about the role of SCS in chronic pain treatment:
Implanting a Neurostimulator
The process begins when a doctor places a small device called a neurostimulator. The doctor inserts thin wires, known as electrodes, into the epidural space near your spinal cord, and then they connect them to the stimulator. The neurostimulator is a small battery-powered generator, which is typically implanted under the skin in your abdomen or buttocks. Before implanting a permanent device, you may go through a trial period.
Using a Mild Electric Current
Once activated, the neurostimulator sends mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord. You have control over the stimulation, using a small remote to turn the device on and off or adjust the intensity. This gives you direct input into your own pain management throughout the day, and the electrical pulses are precisely targeted to the nerves that carry pain signals.
The sensation produced by stimulation varies across different types of spinal cord stimulation systems. Older systems may produce a gentle tingling feeling, which masks the pain. Newer high-frequency systems may provide relief without this tingling sensation at all, which some people prefer. The goal is to replace the feeling of pain with a more pleasant or neutral one.
Different programs and settings can be tailored to your needs. This customization allows the therapy to adapt as your pain levels or activities change. Your doctor will work with you to find the optimal settings that offer you the best possible outcome. This personalized approach is a key part of how spinal cord stimulation works.
Canceling Pain Signals
The electrical pulses from the neurostimulator interrupt the pain signals as they travel up the spinal cord to the brain. Because the brain does not receive the pain message, your perception of pain is reduced. This process involves the spinal cord acting as a gate that can either block pain signals or allow them to pass through to the brain.
The stimulation effectively closes this gate to pain, while allowing the sensation from the stimulator to pass through. This is why you might feel a tingling sensation instead of your chronic pain. The system does not eliminate the source of the pain, but it changes how your body experiences it.
Providing Relief
For many, spinal cord stimulation provides a significant reduction in chronic pain, which allows for a more active lifestyle. This may help you:
- Participate in daily activities
- Sleep more soundly
- Avoid pain medications
The amount of relief varies from person to person, and a successful outcome generally means a significant reduction in pain. It also includes improvements in your ability to function and a better quality of life.
Try Spinal Cord Stimulation
SCS represents a practical option for managing chronic pain when other methods have fallen short. The therapy works by using mild electrical pulses to interrupt pain signals before they can reach the brain, offering a different way to manage discomfort. If you are struggling with chronic pain and want to learn more about your options, professionals can help. Contact an interventional pain specialist to schedule a consultation and find out if SCS is a suitable path for you.
