A spinal cord stimulator is an implant device that uses mild electronic pulses into the spinal cord to alleviate nerve tension. The electric currents alter the transmission of pain signals to your brain and effectively relieve chronic pain. A spinal cord stimulator Englewood Cliffs can minimize your reliance on medications.
Despite the device relieving chronic pain, it does not address the root cause of your pain. It will only change how your brain perceives your pain. Spinal cord stimulation will help you avoid surgery by relieving your chronic pain.
Types of spinal cord stimulators
There are three types of spinal cord stimulators. Each works differently, so your surgeon will explain how to operate the stimulator and adjust the intensity of the electric currents accordingly. Varying body positions require different stimulator settings. For example, sitting will require a different power from walking. These spinal cord stimulators include:
Convectional implantable pulse generator (IPG)
The conventional implantable pulse generator is a spinal cord stimulator that uses a battery. During the operation, your specialist places the battery in your spine. When it runs out, your surgeon must replace it with another surgery. The device is best for people with pain in one body part because its electrical output is low.
A rechargeable implantable pulse generator
Rechargeable IPG works as a conventional device just so that your surgeon can recharge the battery without another surgery. Since the energy source is rechargeable, it puts out more electricity. Rechargeable IPG is a good option for people with chronic pain in the lower back and one or both legs. The electric signals can travel further in your body.
Radiofrequency stimulator
A Radiofrequency stimulator involves a battery that is outside your body. Doctors rarely use it as newer designs and advanced technology has come up. The Radiofrequency stimulator has rechargeable batteries. Like the rechargeable IPG, it will suit you if you have pain in the lower back and legs because of its power.
Uses of spinal cord stimulators
Spinal cord stimulators are mainly used when non-surgical treatments have failed to relieve your pain. They improve your sleep and reduce the need for pain medications. Spinal stimulation can be used along with other pain management techniques like medication, exercise, physical therapy, and relaxation procedures. They manage or treat different forms of chronic pain, including:
Back pain, especially one that persists after you get a surgical procedure
Arachnoiditis. It is a condition that involves painful inflammation of the arachnoid, a thin membrane covering your brain and spinal cord.
Angina, also called heart pain, is untreatable by other techniques
Spinal cord injuries
Pain associated with your nerves, including severe diabetic neuropathy and cancer-related neuropathy resulting from radiation, surgery, or chemotherapy.
Complications resulting from spinal cord stimulators
You can experience complications like infections around the incision sites, bleeding, and device damage in rare instances. Spinal cord trauma occurs in sporadic cases when spinal cord stimulator insertion injures your nerves and can lead to paralysis. A Dura puncture can also happen if the stimulator is inserted too deep into the epidural space, leading to cerebral fluid leakage.
To minimize complications, ensure you get spinal cord stimulation procedures from a qualified and experienced specialist. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Rotman for spinal cord stimulation to improve the overall quality of life.