Spinal Cord Stimulation
The leading choice for spinal cord stimulation treatment in New Hampshire.
What is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an advanced, non-surgical pain management technique offered at Granite State Pain Associates. This therapy involves the use of a small device, similar to a pacemaker, which is implanted in the body to deliver electrical impulses directly to the spinal cord. These impulses interfere with the nerve signals responsible for transmitting pain to the brain, providing significant relief to patients suffering from various chronic pain conditions.
How Spinal Cord Stimulation Works
The spinal cord stimulator consists of two main components: a pulse generator and electrodes. The pulse generator, a small battery-powered device, is implanted under the skin, typically in the lower back or abdomen. Thin, flexible electrodes are then placed in the epidural space near the spinal cord. These electrodes are connected to the pulse generator.
Once the system is in place, the pulse generator sends mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord through the electrodes. These impulses modify the pain signals before they reach the brain, often reducing or even eliminating the perception of pain. Patients can control the intensity and frequency of the impulses using a handheld remote, allowing for personalized pain management.
Spinal cord stimulation is an effective treatment option for a variety of chronic pain conditions, including but not limited to:
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS)
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) is a condition where patients experience persistent pain even after undergoing one or more spinal surgeries. This can be due to various factors such as scar tissue formation, nerve damage, or spinal instability. Spinal cord stimulation can be particularly beneficial for FBSS patients by providing targeted pain relief. The electrical impulses generated by the spinal cord stimulator disrupt the pain signals that would otherwise travel to the brain, significantly reducing the chronic pain experienced after unsuccessful back surgeries.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that typically affects a limb following an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack. It is characterized by severe pain, swelling, and changes in the skin. SCS can help manage CRPS by modulating the pain signals at the spinal cord level, thus preventing them from reaching the brain. This modulation can reduce the intensity of the pain and improve the overall functionality of the affected limb, enhancing the patient’s quality of life.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral Neuropathy involves damage to the peripheral nerves, often resulting in pain, numbness, and weakness, typically in the hands and feet. SCS can be an effective treatment for peripheral neuropathy by delivering electrical impulses that interfere with the transmission of pain signals from the peripheral nerves to the brain. This can lead to a significant reduction in pain and an improvement in sensory and motor function in the affected areas.
Chronic Leg and Arm Pain
Chronic Leg and Arm Pain can result from various conditions, including nerve injuries, musculoskeletal disorders, and vascular issues. When traditional treatments fail to provide relief, SCS offers an alternative by targeting the spinal cord and altering the pain signals before they reach the brain. This targeted approach can significantly alleviate persistent pain in the legs and arms, helping patients to regain mobility and perform daily activities with less discomfort.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal Stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, causing compression of the spinal cord and nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness. SCS can help relieve the pain associated with spinal stenosis by delivering electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses mask the pain signals caused by the nerve compression, providing relief and improving the patient’s ability to move and function.
Arachnoiditis
Arachnoiditis is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the arachnoid, one of the membranes surrounding the nerves of the spinal cord. This inflammation can lead to severe, chronic pain and neurological issues. SCS can be an effective treatment for arachnoiditis by interrupting the pain signals at the spinal cord level. By modulating these signals, SCS can reduce the severity of pain and improve the overall quality of life for patients suffering from this debilitating condition.