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Frequently Asked Questions about Neuromodulationand Spinal cord stimulation

What is Neuromodulation?

Neuromodulation is the process of altering the activity of neural circuits in the nervous system by delivering electrical, chemical, or optical stimuli to specific locations in the brain or body.

How does Spinal cord stimulation work to treat pain?

Spinal cord stimulation is a technique used to treat chronic pain. It involves the implantation of a device which delivers electrical stimuli to the spinal cord. The device is usually implanted in the lower back, and thin wire electrodes are attached to the spinal cord. The electrical stimuli produced by the device can block or modify the pain signals that are sent to the brain, leading to a reduction in pain.

The spinal cord stimulator is controlled by a handheld device that allows the patient to adjust the intensity and frequency of the electrical stimuli.

Spinal cord stimulation is usually reserved for people who have not responded to other types of pain management treatments, such as medications or physical therapy. It is generally considered a safe and effective treatment option for chronic pain, although as with any medical procedure, there are risks and potential complications involved.

Are spinal cord stimulators effective as pain management?

There is evidence to suggest that spinal cord stimulators may be an effective treatment option for chronic pain in some people. On the other hand, others may experience only a slight reduction in pain or no pain relief at all.  The effectiveness of spinal cord stimulation also depends on the type and severity of the pain being treated. It is often used to treat neuropathic pain, which is pain caused by damaged nerves, and may be less effective for nociceptive pain, which is pain caused by tissue damage or inflammation.

With appropriate patient selection by the rehabilitation physician or pain specialist, a spinal cord stimulator trial is undertaken to determine if a long-term system should be implanted.

Overall, spinal cord stimulation is considered a viable treatment option for people who have not responded to other types of pain management treatments, such as medications or physical therapy.

It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of spinal cord stimulation with a healthcare provider to determine if it is an appropriate treatment option for you.