Living with chronic pain can be debilitating and frustrating. Many people who suffer from chronic pain turn to medication for relief, but sometimes medication isn’t enough. That’s where spinal cord stimulation comes in. In this article, we’ll discuss what a spinal cord stimulation trial is and how it can help you find relief from chronic pain.
What Exactly is a Spinal Cord Stimulation Trial?
A spinal cord stimulation trial is one of the ideal ways of trying out the technology to see if it works for you. It’s the first step in deciding whether a high-frequency spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is right for you. During an SCS trial, your doctor will place thin electrodes near your spinal cord. These electrodes will deliver electrical pulses to the nerves in your spine. The electrical pulses will interfere with the pain signals sent to your brain, which can help reduce or eliminate your chronic pain.
The trial usually lasts for a week, during which you may carry out your normal routines. You’ll also keep a pain diary to document your pain levels before, during, and after the trial. After the completion of the trial, you and your doctor will then assess the results of the trial to see if SCS is right for you. If the trial was successful and you decide to move forward, you’ll then undergo surgery to have the permanent device implanted.
What Are the Benefits of a Spinal Cord Stimulation Trial?
There are many benefits to undergoing a spinal cord stimulation trial. First and foremost, it’s a way to see if SCS is right for you without having to commit to the permanent implantation. It’s also a relatively short and non-invasive procedure. The trial gives you the opportunity to test out the SCS technology and see if it’s an effective treatment for your chronic pain.
If you’re considering SCS, a spinal cord stimulation trial is a great first step. You may consider visiting a qualified professional for spinal cord stimulation in Chicago to get the best care possible. They will be able to help you determine if SCS is right for you and walk you through the trial process.
To Conclude
There you have it! A detailed explanation of what a spinal cord stimulator is and how it can benefit you in your pain management. If you or a loved one is facing chronic pain, consider talking to your doctor about this treatment option.