Relief Is Here With Spinal Cord Stimulation

By The Pain Experts of Arizona

Living with chronic pain can feel like a constant uphill battle. For many, injuries or health conditions lead to unrelenting discomfort, making daily life challenging. When traditional treatments don’t provide relief, it’s easy to feel hopeless. However, spinal cord stimulation (SCS) offers a proven solution for those struggling with persistent pain. At The Pain Experts of Arizona, we’re here to guide you through this innovative option. In this blog, we’ll explore what spinal cord stimulation is, how it works, and who might benefit from it.

What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation is a minimally invasive treatment designed to manage chronic pain by targeting the nervous system. The procedure involves implanting a small device under the skin, which delivers mild electrical currents to the spinal cord. These currents interfere with pain signals before they reach the brain, reducing your perception of pain.

While SCS doesn’t eliminate the root cause of pain, it offers significant, lasting relief for many patients. The therapy is particularly effective for individuals whose pain has not responded to other treatments.

How Does Spinal Cord Stimulation Work?

The spinal cord stimulator includes three primary components:

1. Pulse Generator: A small, battery-operated device implanted near the lower back or buttocks.
2. Electrodes: Thin wires placed along the spinal cord that deliver electrical pulses.
3. Remote Control: A handheld device that allows you to adjust the intensity and settings of the stimulation.

The electrical currents alter how the nervous system processes pain signals, replacing them with a gentle tingling sensation (called paresthesia) or eliminating them altogether. The treatment can provide relief for conditions such as:

• Chronic back and neck pain
• Failed back surgery syndrome
• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Nerve-related pain

Advantages of Spinal Cord Stimulation

Spinal cord stimulation offers several key benefits:

1. Significant Pain Relief: Many patients experience a substantial reduction in pain, allowing them to reclaim their quality of life.
2. Customizable Treatment: The device can be adjusted to match your specific needs, ensuring optimal relief.
3. Minimally Invasive: The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis with a short recovery period.
4. Reversible: If you’re not satisfied with the results, the device can be removed without causing permanent changes.
5. Reduced Reliance on Medication: By managing pain effectively, SCS can decrease the need for opioid medications and their associated side effects.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation may be an excellent option for individuals who:

• Have chronic pain that hasn’t improved with physical therapy, medications, or surgery.
• Suffer from nerve-related pain conditions such as CRPS or neuropathy.
• Want to reduce their dependence on pain medications.
• Are seeking a minimally invasive, reversible treatment option.

A trial period is typically conducted before permanent implantation. During the trial, temporary electrodes are placed to evaluate whether SCS provides sufficient pain relief. If the trial is successful, the permanent device can be implanted.

What to Expect During the Procedure

At The Pain Experts of Arizona, we prioritize your comfort and safety throughout the spinal cord stimulation process:

1. Consultation: We’ll conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if SCS is right for you.
2. Trial Period: Temporary electrodes are placed under local anesthesia, and you’ll test the device for about a week.
3. Permanent Implantation: If the trial is successful, the permanent device is implanted in a minimally invasive outpatient procedure.
4. Follow-Up Care: We’ll provide ongoing support to ensure you get the most out of your device.

Why Choose The Pain Experts of Arizona?

At The Pain Experts of Arizona, we specialize in advanced, patient-centered care for chronic pain management. Our team of board-certified pain specialists is dedicated to helping you achieve lasting relief through cutting-edge treatments like spinal cord stimulation. With locations in Gilbert and Mesa, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Take the First Step Toward Pain Relief

If chronic pain is holding you back, spinal cord stimulation could be the solution you’ve been searching for. Contact The Pain Experts of Arizona at 480-550-9393 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation. Let us help you take control of your pain and reclaim your life.