The Complexities of Nerve Pain
Nerve pain, also known as neuropathic pain, is a complex condition that affects a wide range of individuals. Neuropathic pain occurs when a nerve is damaged or the nervous system malfunctions. This can occur for different reasons, including traumatic injury, chronic illness, infection, alcohol abuse, or disease. Nerve pain is often more intense than traditional injury because it manifests as shooting, stabbing, or burning sensations.
Finding relief from neuropathic pain is often difficult for many patients to achieve. Many individuals with different forms of chronic pain find themselves exploring a range of treatment options before finally finding relief. This is partly due to the complex process of correctly diagnosing the patient’s underlying condition. Neuropathic pain cannot be recognized by traditional imaging methods, which means the diagnosis process comes down to a review of the patient’s symptoms.
The Nerve Pain Treatment Process
Patients seeking relief from chronic pain will work closely with their doctor to explore different treatment options. Typically, nerve pain treatment will begin with conservative therapies including physical therapy, injections, or nerve blocks. Additionally, doctors will encourage patients to consider making healthier lifestyle changes during this time.
Switching to a healthier lifestyle is one of the best ways to prevent nerve pain from worsening. Eating healthy, engaging in physical activity, limiting drinking, and quitting smoking can reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and correct nutrient deficiencies.
If patients do not experience relief after trying different conservative therapies, surgical intervention may be recommended. Spinal cord stimulation is a non-invasive, reversible, FDA-approved treatment option for patients with chronic pain. This procedure involves implanting a small device in the epidural space with spaghetti-shaped leads that connect to the spinal cord. These leads send tiny electrical impulses that mask pain signals and help patients manage chronic pain.
Spinal Cord Stimulator Trials with BEST Health System
BEST Helth System is proud to offer advanced chronic pain management through our spinal cord stimulation program. At BEST, this starts with a trial period to determine if this treatment can help patients achieve relief. During the trial period, patients will try different levels of stimulation to see if it can effectively reduce their nerve pain. Patients who notice a significant difference are likely candidates for implantation.
If you are seeking relief from chronic pain, find treatment with BEST Health System. With 40+ locations nationwide, BEST is your home for spinal cord stimulator treatment and care.
We employ in-demand Interventional Pain Management doctors who specialize in spinal cord stimulation. Discover meaningful relief from your nerve pain with the professionals at BEST Health System.
