Our Treatments

What is a Discogram?

A Discogram is a pre-surgical diagnostic test that consists of putting pressure on the inside of a disc by injecting dye into the center of the disc. The goal of this test is to try and reproduce your pain. If your pain is reproduced while the doctor is putting pressure in your disc and the contrast dye goes into an area where it is not supposed to, it identifies which discs are responsible for causing your pain.

What can you expect during your visit?

This procedure is done only in a facility setting. You will check into the facility an hour and a half in advance and must fast for 6 hours prior to your procedure. You will be brought back and prepped by a nurse on staff and an IV will be placed for conscience sedation. In the procedure room you will be placed in the prone position and a fluoroscopy guidance machine will be brought into position. Your doctor will then numb the area with a local anesthetic and insert a needle into the disc and inject the dye. The procedure takes about 15 – 20 minutes and consists of placing 2-4 needles into the discs and injecting the dye into each one. Your doctor will ask you questions about your pain level. After the procedure you will be monitored for about 30 minutes.

What happens after the injection?

You will be asked not to drive for at least 24 hours after the procedure and you must have a driver drive you home from our office. The day of and the following day you may feel some discomfort in the injection areas. Because the discogram is meant to reproduce your pain, you can expect to hurt and be sore for up to 2 weeks after the procedure. After the procedure you will have a CT scan of the area and will follow up with your surgeon.

Is there anything specific I need to tell my doctor prior to this procedure?

You should tell your doctor if you are pregnant, on blood thinners, diabetic, or if you have any other concerns you would like to address beforehand.

What is a Radiofrequency?

A Radiofrequency (RF) is a nerve lesioning procedure that temporarily interrupts pain or nerve transmission for a prolonged duration. It uses a radiofrequency machine to deliver a high temperature lesion to the patient’s medial branch nerve via an RF electrode to induce thermal destruction of the nerves.

What can you expect during your visit?

When the procedure is done in the office, you will meet with your doctor in the exam room first. They will go over all the risks and benefits of this procedure. You will be taken to the exam room, placed in the prone position, and a fluoroscopy guidance machine will be brought into position. Your doctor will then numb the area with a local anesthetic and, using live fluoroscopy guidance; will insert a spinal needle over the correct nerves. He will then place the RF electrode through the needles and begin the process of destroying the sensory portion of the nerve. This is repeated on all affected facet joints. It takes several minutes for the RF to be completed at each site. When the procedure is complete, the medical assistant will clean up the skin and place a bandage over the injection sites. You will then be placed in a post procedure room for about 10 to 20 minutes.

When the procedure is done in a facility, you will check into the facility an hour and a half in advance. You will be asked to fast for 6 hours prior to your procedure. You will be brought back and prepped by a nurse on staff. They will insert the IV for the conscious sedation. In the procedure room you will be placed in the prone position and a fluoroscopy guidance machine will be brought into position. Your doctor will then numb the area with a local anesthetic and, using live fluoroscopy guidance; will insert a spinal needle over the correct nerves. He will then place the RF electrode through the needles and begin the process of destroying the sensory portion of the nerve. This is repeated on all affected facet joints. It takes several minutes for the RF to be completed at each site. You will be monitored for about 30 minutes after your procedure.

What happens after the injection?

You will be asked not to drive for at least 24 hours after the procedure and you must have a driver drive you home from our office. An increase in pain 1 to 2 weeks after the procedure is normal and it will resolve itself.

How long will the pain relief last?

The duration of the pain relief will last at least 6 month to a year, but could last longer based on how long it takes for the nerves to restore themselves.

Is there anything specific I need to tell my doctor prior to this procedure?

You should tell your doctor if you are pregnant, on blood thinners, diabetic, or if you have any other concerns you would like to address beforehand.

The above information is for general education purposes only. Please ask your doctor specific questions during your visit.

If you’re suffering from facet joint pain and haven’t found effective treatments, radiofrequency could provide lasting relief. text goes here

What is a Selective Nerve Root Block?

A Selective Nerve Root Block is an injection of local anesthetic and steroid around a specific nerve root. It is used to determine if a specific nerve root is the source of pain and to reduce the inflammation around that nerve.

What can you expect during your visit?

When the procedure is done in the office, you will meet with your doctor in the exam room first. They will go over all the risks and benefits of this procedure. You will be taken to the exam room, placed in the prone position, and a fluoroscopy guidance machine will be brought into position. Your doctor will then numb the area with a local anesthetic and, using live fluoroscopy guidance; will use a spinal needle to inject steroid and a numbing agent onto the specific nerve root. When the procedure is complete, the medical assistant will clean up the skin and place a bandage over the injection site. You will then be placed in a post procedure room for about 10 to 20 minutes and your pain levels will be reevaluated.

When the procedure is done in a facility, you will check into the facility an hour and a half in advance. You will be asked to fast for 6 hours prior to your procedure. You will be brought back and prepped by a nurse on staff. They will insert the IV for the conscious sedation. In the procedure room you will be placed in the prone position and a fluoroscopy guidance machine will be brought into position. Your doctor will then numb the area with a local anesthetic and, using live fluoroscopy guidance; will use a spinal needle to inject steroid and a numbing agent onto the specific nerve root. When the procedure is complete, the medical assistant will clean up the skin and place a bandage over the injection site. You will then be placed in a post procedure room for about 10 to 20 minutes and your pain levels will be reevaluated.

What happens after the injection?

You will be asked not to drive for at least 24 hours after the procedure and you must have a driver drive you home from our office. You may experience numbness in your leg for as long as the local anesthetic lasts, which can be up to 12 hours. The day of and the following day you may feel some discomfort in the injection areas.

How long will the pain relief last?

The duration of the pain relief will be 1 to 6 hours. The steroid may decrease the pain, but could take 3 – 5 days to fully kick in.

Is there anything specific I need to tell my doctor prior to this procedure?

You should tell your doctor if you are pregnant, on blood thinners, diabetic, or if you have any other concerns you would like to address beforehand.

The above information is for general education purposes only. Please ask your doctor specific questions during your visit.

Don’t let chronic pain take over your life. Oklahoma Pain Management can help you find long-term relief from your pain – so you can get back to doing what you love.

Spinal Cord Stimulation Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spinal Cord Stimulation?

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is the stimulation of nerves by tiny electrical pulses. An implanted lead, which is powered by an implanted battery or receiver, is placed against the patient’s spinal cord. This system sends electrical pulses that block the pain messages to the patient’s brain. SCS implantation is a reversible procedure that does not damage your spinal cord or your nerves; however there are always risks involved with every procedure and surgery. Your doctors will go over all of the risks associated with SCS implantation prior to the trial and permanent surgeries.  Typically patients who have a successful SCS implantation experience 50-70% reduction in their pain.

What type of pain can be improved with SCS?

Intractable neuropathic pain is an indication for the use of SCS. Neuropathic pain is pain that is caused by actual damage to nerve tissue and is often felt as a burning pain or stabbing pain. It is often a chronic, unrelenting pain. This pain in normally accompanied with radiculopathy to the extremities, or pain traveling down the arms and legs.

What does the stimulation feel like?

Some patient’s describe the feeling of SCS as “tingling”. However, after the trial, if this feeling of tingling is annoying or disruptive to you, there are products available that do not have this feeling.

Am I a good candidate for SCS?

The best candidates for SCS implantation have severe chronic pain in their legs or arms. Patients with primarily leg or arm pain and mild back and neck pain can also benefit. In general, the wider the area of pain, the more difficult it is for SCS to be effective. Most patients who have tried more conservative therapies, but who have not experienced sufficient pain relief, are considered candidates for SCS therapy. The patient’s doctor often feels that surgery would not be beneficial.

How does my doctor choose what device is best for me?

At Oklahoma Pain Management, we use a variety of companies that offer different products based on a patient’s particular need. After your initial consultation, our doctors will discuss with you your options and together you can decide which device you would be most comfortable with.

What is the process of getting a permanent SCS?

First, you will have to get a psychological evaluation and then a trial spinal cord stimulator. This will give you the opportunity to try the device before a permanent implantation, to decide if you are comfortable with it and if it gives you the desired pain relief you are seeking.  After the trial you will then move on to the permanent implantation if you choose to do so.

Why do I have to have a psychological evaluation prior to surgery?

Most insurance companies require the psychological evaluation. Its purpose is to make certain that you have a realistic expectation about the implant and its ability to help manage your chronic pain. It is also useful to determine whether you have any related psychological conditions that may interfere with your ability to have a successful outcome.

How long will it take to schedule my surgery?

After a successful stimulator trial, we will work to get you scheduled for implant within 2 to 4 weeks. This will give your body time to heal from the trial period and also give us time to obtain insurance approval.

On average, how long does the surgery take?

The surgery itself takes one to two hours. You will need to arrive 1.5 hours before your appointment time. Most cases are done on an outpatient basis, which means you can usually go home two or three hours after surgery. If an overnight stay is required, you will be admitted under 24-hour observation status.

What are the risks associated with surgery?

Implanting an SCS has risks similar to spinal procedures, including but not limited to, spinal fluid leaks, headaches, swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection, and paralysis. A full list of risks will be explained to you when you meet with the doctor and again prior to the surgery. If you have questions or concerns about the risks, always ask your physician before moving forward with the surgery.

How big are the incisions?

There is a 2 to 3 inch incision along the spine that is used to place the lead in the spine. The incision for the stimulator (battery) is about 4 inches long. The lead wire is tunneled under the skin and connected to the stimulator.

After the implant, what precautions should I follow?

During the first 6 to 8 weeks following the surgery, you will need to avoid lifting, bending, reaching, and twisting movements. This allows time for scar tissue to form and anchor the lead.

What if my bandage needs changed after surgery?

We ask that you leave your initial bandage on until you come in for your post-op visit. Occasionally, the bandage will become soaked through with blood and in that case you may change it out with fresh gauze bandages. If it soaks through a second time, please notify the office.

When can I bathe and/or shower again?

You may sponge bathe 2 days after the surgery, but do not get the bandages wet. You may shower after 7 days after surgery, but do not get the bandages wet.

Is it normal to feel pain for weeks after the surgery? What can help?

You will probably experience pain for 2 to 6 weeks after surgery. This pain, caused by developing scar tissue, happens with any type of implant surgery. It is your body’s natural response to the implant. Once scar tissue forms, the pain will begin to diminish. Ice can help with pain and swelling at the affected areas. You may be given a prescription for pain medication after surgery.

How soon can I return to work?

If you have been working up until the time of your implant, you may be able to return to work within 2 weeks of your surgery. If your job involves any repetitive lifting, bending, twisting, or stooping, you may need to be off work for 6 weeks in order to avoid possible movement of the stimulator lead.

Can I go in a bath, hot tub, steam room or sauna?

Yes, after your incisions have healed. If you feel any localized heat sensation around your stimulator, you should get out of the tub or sauna room.

If I am having problems, when should I call the office?

If you are  having problems, or are concerned there may be a problem, you can always call our office to ask questions. However, there are times when you should call our office immediately.

• If you are having excessive bleeding after surgery that soaks the bandage through after being changed

• If you are experiencing excessive or unusual pain, swelling, or redness around your incisions.

• If you are experiencing excessive or unusual pain, swelling, or redness around your incisions.

• If you notice unusual changes in the quality or location of your stimulator, or when you experience no sensation at all.

• If you are increasing stimulation more often than normal.

• If you begin to run a fever

What is a Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a minimally-invasive surgical procedure, in which our doctors inject your fractured vertebra with a special cement through a small hole in the skin.

After the procedure, you’ll feel:

• Alleviated pain associated with the fracture

• Restored lost vertebral body height from the compression fracture

• Better posture due to better bone stability.

In most instances, we perform the procedure without a hospital stay; in many cases, we perform it in less than an hour.

Am I a good candidate for Kyphoplasty?

Good candidates for Kyphoplasty include:

• Patients with recent compression fractures related to osteoporosis. The procedure should be completed within 8 weeks of the onset of symptoms for the best results.

• Patients that have bones weakened by cancer.

• Older patients, as the long-term effects of the cement are not yet known on younger patients.

What can you expect during your Kyphoplasty treatment?

Prior to your procedure

Prior to the procedure, you will meet with your doctor to go over all the risks and benefits of the Kyphoplasty. As it is a medical procedure, your doctor may order blood tests. The doctor may also order an MRI and x-rays to help the doctor determine the precise area of your vertebrae that needs attention. Once you fully understand the procedure, and we’ve explained all risks and ordered all tests, we will schedule your kyphoplasty.

Day of your procedure

1. On the day of the procedure, we ask you to fast for 6 hours prior to your procedure time.

2. You will be brought back and prepped by a nurse or medical assistant on staff; they will insert the IV for the sedation medications.

3. You will meet with the anesthesiologist and your doctor prior to the procedure. Then, you’ll be taken to the procedure room and be placed in the prone (laying on your stomach) position.

4. A fluoroscopy guidance machine will be brought into position.
   The machine passes an X-ray beam through the body and shows a continuous X-ray image on a monitor, akin to a movie. Then, an anesthesiologist will administer the sedation medication through your IV.

5. Using the fluoroscopy guidance, your doctor will place a needle through your skin and back muscles, and into the compressed vertebrae.

6. Once we place the needle correctly, your doctors will inflate a small balloon to make room for the special cement by elevating the fracture.

7. We remove the balloon and inject the cement into the compressed vertebrae.

8. Your doctor will then remove the needle.

The entire kyphoplasty procedure will take less than an hour in most cases.

After your procedure

After your procedure, we will take into a recovery room; we will remove your IV, and a nurse or medical assistant will closely monitor for about 30 minutes.

You will be asked not to drive for at least 24 hours after the procedure, and you must have a driver to drive you home from our office. You may feel some discomfort in the injection areas that could last a few days, but can resume normal activity almost immediately.

How long will the pain relief last after Kyphoplasty?

Pain relief for many may be immediate. However, for some, it may take days to feel the full effects of the procedure. Patients should follow up with their referring physician to discuss spine maintenance to avoid future fractures.

Is there anything specific I need to tell my doctor prior to this procedure?

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, on blood thinners, diabetic, or if you have any other concerns you would like to address beforehand.

The above information is for general education purposes only. Please ask your doctor specific questions during your visit.

The Minuteman Procedure for Back Pain

This innovative method involves a small incision about one inch long on your side to access your spine. After that, a device known as the Minuteman, an interspinous-interlaminar fusion device, is carefully implanted with a bone graft. This device is designed to attach to your posterior non-cervical spine at the spinous processes. Once in place, it provides fixation and stabilization to your spine, reducing the pressure on your spinal nerves. This reduction is key because it alleviates the pain caused by your spine condition. 

The entire process usually takes less than 60 minutes and is done as an outpatient procedure. So you're likely to be back home the same day, and the best part? You can start experiencing significant pain relief within one to two weeks.Spine Conditions Indicated for The Minuteman Procedure

Chronic back pain can be caused by a variety of pain conditions that affect the spine. The Minuteman procedure is primarily used for degenerative disc disease, lumbar spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis.

Take a moment to read through this breakdown of each condition and how the Minuteman procedure can help relieve pain from that condition.

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)

Degenerative disc disease is a pain condition where the discs between the vertebrae break down over time, causing them to lose their cushioning effect and leading to pain and stiffness. Symptoms of degenerative disc disease can include back pain, muscle spasms, and reduced mobility.

What makes the Minuteman procedure so effective for degenerative disc disease is its ability to stabilize and fix the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine. By doing this, it reduces the pressure on the spinal nerves caused by the degenerated disc, which is often the source of your pain.

Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease

While some people may not experience any pain associated with degenerative disc disease, symptoms will appear if the discs are completely worn down. Degenerative disc disease can occur in the cervical spine in the neck region or the lumbar spine in the lower back.

Some common symptoms of DDD include:

• Pain when bending, twisting, or lifting something even moderately heavy

• Pain in the buttocks, legs, or feet may get worse when standing or sitting for long periods without a proper break

• Reduced pain may also be reduced when properly stretching or sitting/lying in ergonomically correct positions

• Muscle spasms or feeling as if your back is giving out

• A numbness or tingling sensation that radiates into the legs

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a common condition that occurs when the spaces within the spine narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This pressure can cause pain, weakness, and numbness in the legs, back, and buttocks.

Spinal stenosis most commonly affects people over 50 and can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, arthritis, and injury. The Minuteman procedure provides fixation and stabilization, offering relief from spinal stenosis pain symptoms.

Symptoms of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis:

• Back or Leg Weakness

• Numbness or Tingling

• Heaviness in Legs

• Canes and Walkers

Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is a condition where one of your vertebrae slips forward onto the bone directly beneath it. This displacement can often lead to discomfort or pain. You might experience symptoms like lower back pain  or stiffness, leg weakness or numbness, and difficulty walking or standing for long periods. It's a condition that can affect anyone, but it's particularly common among athletes and people over 50.

How does the Vertiflex Procedure work?

The Vertiflex Procedure is a safe, minimally invasive treatment that has been clinically proven to provide effective long-term relief from the pain associated with LSS.

• FDA approved

• Same-day procedure

• Quick recovery time

• Covered by Medicare and several private insurance companies, based on medical necessity (Each insurance company and patient’s plan may vary. Please work with your physician to verify benefits and coverage.)

  Placement

  A small spacer is placed inside the spine without removal of any nearby bone or tissue.

  Activation

  Once inserted, the spacer’s arms open around the spinous processes (the bumps you can feel in your spine) to help make proper space for the affected nerves.

  Relief

  The spacer preserves the space in the spine, which keeps pressure off the nerves that cause leg and back pain.

  Is the Vertiflex Procedure safe?

  The Vertiflex Procedure was developed with patient safety and comfort in mind.

  Its minimally invasive approach is preferred among many doctors across the United States.

  General anesthesia is not required and there is minimal recovery time, getting you home the same day.

  The spacer is designed to support your existing anatomy and does not require removal of bone or tissue, making it a safe option for LSS treatment.

  Click here for important safety and risk information about the procedure

  How effective is it?

  The Vertiflex Procedure was the subject of an extremely thorough FDA clinical trial for LSS. Results from the trial proved the effectiveness of the procedure, with significant improvement in pain relief.

  The procedure can be completed in an outpatient setting and most patients can return home within the same day.

  Proven results

  Nine out of ten patients in the clinical study were satisfied with their pain relief and increase in physical activity.1,‡

The mild® Procedure is an FDA-cleared minimally invasive treatment option that addresses a major root cause of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). LSS is primarily a degenerative, age-related narrowing of the lower spinal canal that causes symptoms of pain, numbness, tingling or heaviness when standing or walking in the low back, legs, or buttocks. The mild® Procedure treats this condition by removing excess, thickened ligament tissue to restore space in the spinal canal and reduce the pressure on the spinal nerves.

mild® is an early treatment option to consider when conservative therapies such as physical therapy, pain medication, and chiropractic treatments do not provide adequate relief. The short, outpatient mild® Procedure can be performed through a single, tiny incision smaller than the size of a baby aspirin (5.1 mm) and is covered by Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans nationwide.

What are the potential benefits of the mild® Procedure?

mild® may help patients diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) stand longer and walk farther with less pain by treating the underlying cause of LSS symptoms in a minimally invasive way.2

Benefits of the mild® Procedure

• Outpatient procedure, typically performed in less than 1 hour

• Patients typically resume normal activity within 24 hours with no restrictions8

• Requires no general anesthesia, implants, stitches, steroids or opioids

• Low complication risk profile and high efficacy profile as demonstrated in clinical studies6

Does the mild® Procedure require general anesthesia?

No, the mild® Procedure is performed in an outpatient setting and does not require general anesthesia. The mild® Procedure is generally performed with only local anesthetic and light sedation.

How long does the mild® Procedure take?

mild® is a short outpatient procedure that is typically performed in less than one hour. Most patients return home the same day and typically resume normal activity within 24 hours with no restrictions.8

Is mild® accepted by my insurance?

The mild® Procedure is covered nationwide by Medicare and Medicare Advantage. Commercial coverage and other plans vary. Talk to your doctor to obtain coverage specifics for your plan type.

Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) is a minimally invasive therapy for people with certain types of chronic nerve pain. PNS is a safe, same-day procedure that can offer significant relief to patients for whom other treatments such as medication and other pain procedures have not been effective.

Peripheral nerves are the nerves that extend outside of the brain and spinal cord and connect to our organs and extremities. Under ultrasound or X-ray guidance, a PNS system can be implanted to target the precise peripheral nerves causing pain.

Pain Conditions Treated by PNS

• Chronic back pain

• Headaches with occipital nerve irritation

• Nerve compression

• Chronic neuropathic pain of the upper and lower extremities

• Persistent shoulder and knee pain

• Groin or nerve pain after surgery

How the PNS Procedure Works

During the PNS procedure, a thin wire with small metal electrodes near the tip is implanted under ultrasound or x-ray guidance next to the pain-causing nerve. Electrical pulses generated by the electrodes interfere with pain signals that are being sent to the brain and change the way the brain perceives pain.

The implanted electrode receives energy from an external device which includes a transmitter and antenna. When turned on, the stimulation feels like nothing to a mild tingling in the area where pain is felt.

Depending on the PNS system used, a simple hand-held remote may allow you to control the level of stimulation. Based on the condition treated, most patients experience sustained relief even after the wire is removed and the treatment ends.

PNS System Components

• A small battery/transmitter placed on or under the skin

• A wire that delivers electrical pulses

• An external device used to control it depending on the type of PNS system

Who Is a Candidate for PNS

PNS may be an option if:

• Your pain is caused by a peripheral neuropathy

• Conservative treatment options (medications, physical therapy, procedures, etc.) have not worked

• You are not a candidate for or do not wish to have further surgery

• Your pain is not due to an easily correctable problem

• You do not have significant medical or psychological conditions that would make the PNS implantation procedure unsafe

PNS Eligibility

Here is the process to determine if you are a candidate for PNS therapy.

1. A pain physician will evaluate your pain condition to determine whether your pain syndrome may be helped by PNS.

2. The pain physician may perform a nerve block with local anesthetic and/or steroid medication to evaluate if your pain improves with treating a specific nerve.

3. Once you are qualified for a PNS therapy, a physician may place a temporary trial stimulator to decide if PNS is right for you. If your pain is greater than 50%, then a permanent simulator may be implanted.

4. If the trial provides significant pain relief, the next step is permanent implantation which can remain in place for a brief period or for a longer duration depending on the pain condition treated.

With PNS therapy, you may experience relief of your chronic pain, improved mobility and an overall better quality of life. Peripheral nerve stimulation have been clinically proven to reduce chronic pain. Your pain may not be removed entirely, but some patients have reported complete pain relief. Results may vary.

Living with diabetes is a daily challenge that millions of people face worldwide. Among the many complications that can arise from this condition, Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) is one that often goes unnoticed until it starts to significantly impact daily life. DPN is a common and debilitating consequence of diabetes, affecting up to 50% of individuals with the condition.

In this article, we aim to shed light on this often misunderstood condition, providing you with a better understanding of what DPN is, how it affects daily life, and the importance of finding effective treatments.

Pain in foot. Woman touching red hurt zone on her foot, isolated on white background

Understanding Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage nerves, particularly those in the feet and legs. This nerve damage can cause a range of symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness.

For many people living with DPN, these symptoms can be so severe that they interfere with daily activities, sleep, and overall quality of life. The loss of sensation in the feet also increases the risk of developing foot ulcers and infections, which, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications and even amputations.

With the profound impact that DPN can have on an individual’s life, it is crucial to raise awareness about the condition and emphasize the importance of finding effective treatments. By exploring various treatment options and working closely with healthcare professionals, those living with DPNs can better manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Through empathy, education, and support, we hope to empower our readers to take control of their health and make informed decisions regarding their diabetic peripheral neuropathy care.

What is Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)?

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is a cutting-edge medical treatment that has been gaining traction in recent years as an effective means to manage chronic pain. This innovative therapy involves the use of a spinal cord stimulator for neuropathy and other painful conditions, providing relief to countless patients worldwide. In this section, we will delve into the fascinating history of SCS, explore how it works, and discuss some common conditions that can be treated with this groundbreaking technology.

The origins of Spinal Cord Stimulation can be traced back to the 1960s when researchers began experimenting with electrical stimulation as a method to alleviate pain. Dr. Norman Shealy, a neurosurgeon, is credited with implanting the first spinal cord stimulator for neuropathy in 1967. Since then, advancements in technology and research have led to more sophisticated devices and improved outcomes for patients, making SCS a popular choice among healthcare professionals and those seeking relief from chronic pain.

So, How Does Spinal Cord Stimulation Work?

The process involves the implantation of a small device, called a spinal cord stimulator, in the patient’s body. This device delivers mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord, which interfere with pain signals traveling to the brain. As a result, the perception of pain is reduced or even eliminated, providing much-needed relief for those suffering from chronic pain.

SCS has been proven effective in treating a variety of conditions. Some common ones include:

• SCS for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: Patients with diabetes often experience nerve damage in their extremities, leading to chronic pain. Spinal Cord Stimulator for diabetic neuropathy has shown promising results in helping to manage this debilitating pain.

• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): This condition causes severe, persistent pain, usually affecting one limb. SCS has been successful in reducing pain levels and improving the quality of life for individuals with CRPS.

• Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS): Patients who continue to experience chronic pain after back surgery may find relief through Spinal Cord Stimulation.

As we continue to learn more about the potential applications of Spinal Cord Stimulation, it is clear that this innovative therapy holds great promise for those struggling with chronic pain.

How Does spinal cord stimulation help with Neuropathy

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) has emerged as a promising treatment option for patients suffering from Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN). As we’ve discussed earlier, DPN is a common and often debilitating complication of diabetes that affects the nerves in the extremities, leading to chronic pain. In this section, we’ll explore the rationale behind using Spinal Cord Stimulators for Peripheral Neuropathy, the clinical studies supporting its effectiveness, and the benefits of this innovative therapy in managing DPN symptoms.

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The rationale behind using Spinal Cord Stimulator for Neuropathy

Traditional treatments for DPN, such as medications, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy, can offer some relief but may not be effective for all patients. Spinal Cord Stimulator for neuropathy in feet presents an alternative approach by directly targeting the spinal cord and interfering with pain signals traveling to the brain. This unique mechanism of action allows SCS to address the root cause of DPN pain, rather than merely masking the symptoms.

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Clinical studies and effectiveness

Several clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of SCS in managing DPN symptoms. A study published in the journal Pain Medicine in 2018 found that SCS provided significant pain relief and improved quality of life for patients with painful diabetic neuropathy who were unresponsive to conventional treatments1. Another study published in the journal Diabetes Care in 2020 showed that SCS led to a 59% reduction in pain intensity and a 44% improvement in sleep quality for patients with refractory DPN2. These findings support the use of SCS as an effective nerve stimulator for neuropathy.

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Benefits of SCS as an nerve stimulator for neuropathy

SCS offers several benefits for patients struggling with DPN pain:

• Pain relief: As discussed above, clinical studies have shown that SCS can provide significant pain relief for DPN patients, improving their overall quality of life.

• Non-pharmacological treatment: SCS offers an alternative to medications, which can have side effects and may not be suitable for all patients.

• Personalized therapy: The spinal cord stimulator can be adjusted to meet the specific needs of each patient, ensuring optimal pain relief.

• Reversible and minimally invasive: The SCS implantation procedure is minimally invasive, and the device can be removed if necessary, making it a low-risk option for patients seeking relief from DPN pain.

In conclusion, Spinal Cord Stimulation is a promising treatment option for patients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy who have not found relief through traditional therapies. With its unique mechanism of action, clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness, and multiple benefits in managing DPN symptoms, SCS holds great potential for improving the lives of those struggling with this challenging condition.

Spinal Cord Stimulator Neuropathy: Frequently Asked Questions

As you consider Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) as a potential treatment option for your chronic pain, it’s natural to have questions and concerns. In this section, we’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions about SCS, providing you with valuable insights and information to help guide your decision-making process.

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Is SCS right for me?

Determining if SCS is an appropriate treatment option for you depends on several factors, including the cause of your pain, the severity of your symptoms, and your response to other treatments. Generally, SCS is considered for individuals who have not experienced sufficient pain relief from conservative therapies such as medications, physical therapy, or injections. A consultation with a healthcare professional experienced in pain management, such as a pain specialist or neurosurgeon, can help you determine if SCS is a suitable treatment option for your specific situation.

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Will my insurance cover SCS?

Coverage for SCS varies depending on your insurance provider and plan. In many cases, SCS is covered by both private insurance companies and government-funded programs like Medicare and Medicaid, provided that certain criteria are met. These criteria may include the completion of a psychological evaluation and a successful trial period. It’s essential to consult with your insurance provider and healthcare team to determine the specific requirements and coverage details for your plan.

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How long does the SCS device last?

The battery life of an SCS device depends on the specific model and usage patterns. Typically, non-rechargeable devices can last anywhere from 2 to 7 years, while rechargeable devices can last up to 10 years or more. Once the battery is depleted, a minor surgical procedure will be required to replace the device. Your healthcare team will help you choose the most suitable device based on your needs and preferences.

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Can I have an MRI with an SCS implant?

The compatibility of your SCS device with MRI scans depends on the specific model of your device. Some newer SCS devices are designed to be MRI-compatible, allowing for safe MRI scans under certain conditions. However, older or non-MRI-compatible devices may require the temporary deactivation or removal of the device before undergoing an MRI. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare team and radiology staff about your SCS implant before any imaging procedure. They will provide you with the necessary guidance and precautions to ensure your safety.

As you explore the possibility of Spinal Cord Stimulation for your chronic pain, remember that open communication with your healthcare team is essential. They can address any additional questions or concerns you may have, ensuring that you make an informed decision about your treatment options.

Taking The Next Steps Toward Pain Relief

In conclusion, Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) has emerged as a promising and innovative treatment option for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN). By directly targeting the spinal cord and modulating pain signals, SCS offers a unique approach to managing chronic pain associated with DPN. With numerous clinical studies supporting its effectiveness in providing significant pain relief and improving the quality of life, SCS is a valuable option for those who have not found success with traditional therapies.

It’s essential to remember that each individual’s experience with DPN and response to treatment may vary. Therefore, we encourage you to consult with a healthcare professional experienced in pain management to discuss your specific situation. At Pain and Spine Specialists, our board-certified pain specialists are committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate, and personalized care to address your unique needs.

Don’t let chronic pain hold you back any longer. Reach out to our team of experts who understand the importance of empathy, dignity, and effective treatment options for conditions like Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy.