The Reality of Living with Nerve Pain
Living with nerve pain can be an incredibly challenging and often debilitating experience. Unlike other types of pain, nerve pain tends to be persistent and can range in severity from mildly uncomfortable to excruciating. The most frustrating part about nerve pain, however, is that it is more difficult to treat since the pain is oftentimes difficult to identify the root cause of it.
Nerve pain is caused by damage or dysfunction within the nervous system, resulting in abnormal signals being sent throughout the body. The consequences of living with nerve pain extend beyond physical discomfort, as it can also affect one’s mental and emotional well-being. Individuals experiencing nerve pain may struggle to participate in daily activities, maintain relationships, and even find employment due to the consistent agony they endure.
How Spinal Cord Stimulation Works
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a therapeutic technique used to treat patients who suffer from severe chronic pain. This treatment involves the implantation of a medical device to stimulate the nerves and send out electrical signals to prevent the brain from interpreting nerve pain. Before committing to an implanted SCS, patients will undergo a trial period where they can test out the device to see if it effectively manages their pain. If patients notice substantial relief, they can go on to have a permanent device implanted.
You may be wondering how these devices function, and we are here to help you understand. Although all spinal cord stimulator devices vary in nature, they all follow generally the same guidelines. SCS devices are comprised of three parts: the generator, the leads, and the remote or charging pieces. The generator creates electrical impulses which are sent out to nerves through the leads. These pulses interfere with the pain and offer relief from extreme discomfort. Patients can use their remote to control their device, allowing them to change the electrical impulses depending on their level of nerve pain.
Conditions that Can Be Benefit from Spinal Cord Stimulation
Many patients with nerve-related pain can benefit from spinal cord stimulation. At BEST Health System, we treat various types of patients who experience relentless nerve pain including, but not limited to, different types of neuropathy, complex regional pain syndrome, and failed back surgery syndrome. We have witnessed the relief that many patients experience after trying spinal cord stimulation, and we are passionate about helping all patients affected by these challenging conditions. Read on to learn more about the benefits of spinal cord stimulation.
The Benefits of Spinal Cord Stimulator Devices
Spinal cord stimulation can help patients experiencing chronic pain in various ways, some ways that many patients are unaware of.
- “Gate Control Theory”: Gate control theory is a prominent concept in the field of spinal cord stimulation, which involves the use of electrical currents to alleviate chronic pain. The theory proposes that the transmission of pain signals can be regulated by a “gate” mechanism located in the spinal cord, controlling whether pain messages are allowed to ascend to the brain or not.
- The Release of Endorphins: The electrical impulses created by spinal cord stimulators can release endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. In addition to blocking pain signals from reaching the brain, SCS devices can also have a positive impact on how the body manages pain itself.
- Getting Back on Track: Many patients with nerve pain are unable to participate in physical therapy due to a lack of function or mobility. Spinal cord stimulators can offer relief so patients can join a physical therapy program and improve their physical health.
Spinal Cord Stimulation with BEST Health System
BEST Health System is proud to offer premium spinal cord stimulator treatment to patients experiencing chronic pain or neuropathy. Our dedicated staff works with patients to help them get back on their feet after they receive a diagnosis of neuropathy or another chronic condition.
We offer spinal cord stimulator trials so patients can test the treatment before committing to surgical implantation. 80% of our patients experienced substantial (at least 50%) pain relief after getting the device. Are you ready to find relief from your chronic pain? Contact BEST today to learn more about our services.
