Spinal Cord Stimulation in Tulsa, OK
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Spinal Cord Stimulator in Oklahoma
Living with chronic pain can feel like navigating a maze with no exit. At Memorial Pain Clinic in Tulsa, we understand the relentless toll that conditions like arthritis, nerve damage, or back injuries can take on your quality of life. That’s why we offer advanced solutions like spinal cord stimulation—a cutting-edge therapy designed to interrupt pain signals before they reach your brain.
If you’re tired of managing pain with temporary fixes and are ready to explore lasting relief from chronic pain, our pain management experts are here to guide you through the possibilities of a spinal cord stimulator. Reach out to us today and schedule an appointment by calling 918-200-9944.
What Is a Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) Implant?
A spinal cord stimulator is a small, implanted device that helps manage chronic pain by sending electrical impulses to the spinal cord. These impulses interfere with pain signals before they reach the brain, reducing the sensation of pain. The spinal cord stimulator works by being placed in the epidural space of the spine, where it delivers low-level electrical currents to targeted areas.
This treatment is often recommended when other methods like physical therapy or pain medicines haven’t provided sufficient relief. For many, spinal cord stimulators offer a life-changing option to regain control over chronic pain and improve their quality of life.
Types of Nerve Stimulators
There are three main types of spinal cord stimulators used to treat pain: implantable pulse generators (IPG), rechargeable IPGs, and radiofrequency stimulators.
Implantable pulse generators (IPGs) are battery-operated devices surgically implanted under the skin. They deliver electrical pulses to the spinal cord without needing external power, providing consistent relief until the battery eventually needs replacement, usually after several years.
Similar to standard IPGs, rechargeable implantable pulse generators also send electrical signals to the spinal cord. However, they have a rechargeable battery, offering a longer lifespan and reducing the need for frequent surgical battery replacements.
These devices use a small external transmitter to send radiofrequency signals to the implanted receiver in the spinal cord area. They can offer more targeted and customizable pain relief but require wearing an external power source during use.
Spinal Cord Stimulator Paddles vs Leads
During spinal cord stimulator implantation, providers choose between paddles and percutaneous leads. Paddles are flat, wider electrodes surgically placed on the spinal cord through a more invasive procedure. They offer more precise stimulation and stability, reducing the risk of migration, but typically require more complex surgery.
Leads, on the other hand, are thinner, wire-like electrodes inserted through a needle using a less invasive technique. While they are easier to place, they may be more prone to shifting, which can affect the consistency of pain relief.
What Are Spinal Cord Stimulators Used For?
Spinal cord stimulators are used to treat chronic pain associated with various conditions, including the following.
- Persistent spinal pain syndrome, formerly known as failed back surgery syndrome: To manage chronic pain following spine surgery that hasn’t fully relieved symptoms.
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS): To help reduce severe, continuous pain in a limb often triggered by an injury or surgery.
- Peripheral vascular disease: To alleviate pain from poor circulation in the limbs caused by damaged blood vessels.
- Chronic pain from nerve damage: Often used when medications or physical therapy have not effectively managed nerve-related pain.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation devices are great for those who suffer from chronic pain and haven’t responded well to more conservative treatments. Ideal candidates are individuals with conditions like persistent spinal pain syndrome or complex regional pain syndrome, where these devices may effectively relieve pain. Often, candidates undergo a trial period to see if the device can effectively manage their pain before committing to permanent implantation.
Spinal Cord Stimulator Trial
Before implanting the spinal cord stimulator, we do a quick test run called a “trial” to prove the effectiveness in our office. If this proves to be effective, we obtain insurance authorization and schedule the patient to implant the unit for longer-term chronic pain relief in an outpatient setting.
What Is the Spinal Cord Stimulator Procedure?
The spinal cord stimulator procedure typically begins with a trial phase to ensure the treatment effectively relieves pain. During this trial, a temporary device is placed through a small incision in the back, with leads inserted into the epidural space near the spinal cord.
The patient wears an external stimulator for about a week to determine if spinal cord stimulation provides significant pain relief. If the trial is successful, the patient can proceed with permanent implantation.
The permanent procedure involves surgically implanting the spinal cord stimulator device under the skin, usually in the lower back or abdomen. Leads are carefully positioned along the spinal cord and connected to the stimulator, which is placed in a small pocket under the skin. Once the device is in place, the incision is closed with a suture or skin glue to minimize scarring.
Spinal Cord Stimulator Surgery
This neurological surgery isn’t as invasive as one might think. It is an outpatient procedure. During the procedure, a pain specialist will create a small pocket under the skin in which to position the spinal cord stimulator. The procedure is minimally invasive and involves a small incision which should heal more quickly than traditional spinal surgery.
Spinal Cord Stimulator Side Effects
The potential side effects of spinal cord stimulation include the following.
- Pain at the implant site
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Hardware malfunctions
- Spinal cord or nerve injury
Spinal Cord Stimulator Permanent Restrictions
After getting a spinal cord stimulator, most patients can return to their normal daily activities with few permanent restrictions. However, there are some limitations to keep in mind. Activities that involve excessive twisting, bending, or heavy lifting should be avoided to prevent movement of the device’s leads.
Additionally, patients with spinal cord stimulation devices may need to avoid certain medical procedures like MRI scans, as the device could interfere with the imaging. Work closely with an interventional pain management specialist at Memorial Pain to understand if you need any specific lifestyle adjustments.
What Is the Spinal Cord Stimulator Recovery Time?
Recovery time after spinal cord stimulation surgical treatment typically varies depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. Most patients can expect to resume light activities within a few days to a week following surgery, though it may take up to six weeks for a full recovery.
What Is the Success Rate of a Spinal Cord Stimulator?
The success rate of spinal cord stimulation varies, but research shows that it can reduce chronic pain by 50% or more in approximately 50-70% of patients. While it may not completely eliminate pain, many patients experience significant relief that improves their quality of life and reduces their reliance on pain medications.
Tips for Living with a Spinal Cord Stimulator
Living with a spinal cord stimulator requires some adjustments to ensure optimal pain relief and device longevity. First, it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for activity levels and avoid heavy lifting or excessive twisting, which can impact the device’s effectiveness. Gentle exercises and stretching, as advised by your doctor, can help maintain overall health and support pain management without straining the stimulator.
Regular follow-ups with your pain management specialist are important for adjusting the settings on the spinal cord stimulator to match your evolving needs. This helps maximize the effectiveness of spinal cord stimulation in managing chronic pain. Additionally, be mindful of any changes in pain levels or discomfort, and report them promptly to your healthcare team.
Lastly, protecting the implant site from infection and avoiding activities that could disrupt the device are key to maintaining its functionality. By keeping these practices in mind, you can enjoy the benefits of spinal cord stimulation and improve your overall quality of life.
Call Memorial Pain Clinic for Chronic Pain Relief with Spinal Cord Stimulation in Tulsa
At Memorial Pain Clinic in Tulsa, OK, we are dedicated to providing advanced solutions for managing chronic pain, including spinal cord stimulation. Our experienced team is committed to helping you explore the benefits of spinal cord stimulators and determine if this innovative therapy is right for you.
If you’re struggling with persistent pain and seeking a path to relief, we invite you to reach out to us. Let us partner with you on your journey towards a better quality of life through personalized care and cutting-edge pain management techniques.
