Many people undergo periods of pain that happen recurrently throughout their lives. Many people ignore this pain and attribute it to being tired due to working. Pain in your back area is typically where most people feel discomfort and pain. This is usually assumed to be signs of getting older, especially for adults. Specialized medical centers have emerged that diagnose these problems and offer treatment plans that enable the management of the symptoms. Read the article further to learn about Livingston spinal cord stimulation and how it helps manage back area problems.
What is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
This therapy method aims to hide pain signals before they get to the brain. This is done by applying a tiny specialized device that transmits electrical pulses to the spinal cord. This device minimizes opioid medications, thereby helping reduce chronic pain. The device may also be used for pain in your arms, legs, or back.
Spinal Cord Stimulator
A spinal cord stimulator device is typically placed beneath your skin, transmitting mild electric currents to the spinal cord. Several tiny wires move the current from a pulse generator to the nerve endings of the spinal cord. The device triggers nerves in the site of the pain when it is turned on. This minimizes the pain as the electric pulses change and mask the pain signals going to your brain.
Some devices apply the use of a current of low frequency to interchange the pain feeling with paresthesia, i.e., a mild tingling sensation. Devices that use high frequency hide the pain without any tingling sensation. Most devices have the option to switch between the two results.
This stimulation does not get rid of where the pain comes from; it only changes how your brain sees it. The pain relief for each person is different, with the SCS device aiming to get rid of at least half of the pain. Even a tiny decrease in pain levels can be hugely beneficial if you can minimize how much pain medication you take and conduct your everyday activities. The device does not improve your muscle strength.
The stimulation is not suitable for everyone. Other people may find the sensation discomforting, while others may not be relieved on the whole affected area. It is thus recommended for you to give it a one-week trial simulation. If you find the device not helping or comfortable, you can get it and the wires removed without damaging your nerves or spinal cord.
Although there are many types of SCS devices, they all have three common parts such as:
- A lead wire with several electrodes transmits electrical pulses to the spinal cord
- A pulse generator containing a battery to form the electrical pulses
- A small remote to turn the device off and on and to change the settings
You may be having these back area pain problems but can go on with your daily activities without much interference. However, if these symptoms become too unbearable to carry on, you can get the SCS device. Visit our website or call our offices in Livingston, NJ, to book a consultation.
