Spinal Cord Stimulation: For patients who suffer from chronic pain in their limbs, neck and trunk, the options for pain relief can be limited. For some, pain medication works. But for others the effect is negligible and more aggressive treatment is required.
Among those treatment options that are available is what’s called Spinal Cord Stimulation.
“The spinal cord stimulator is an invasive implantable device for the treatment of chronic intractable pain in the limbs, neck Spinal Cord Stimulation,” said Dr. Jorge Leal, a Tampa pain specialist with Florida Pain Relief Group.
The Spinal Cord Stimulator process, a form of neurostimulation, is done by applying an electrical current to the source of pain creating a tranquil sensation that blocks the brain’s ability to sense perceived pain.
“I tell the patients that it works by ‘fooling’ the brain into believing that there is no pain,” Dr. Leal said. “First, a trial is performed and if successful, a permanent unit is implanted.”
This procedure is one that is commonly done for patients suffering from failed back surgery or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.
“It is a last resort effort designed to treat pain that has not responded to conventional therapies, nerve blocks, etc. It is commonly described as a ‘pacemaker’ to the spinal cord,” Dr. Leal said.
In order to qualify for the procedure, a patient must first undergo a psychological evaluation.
Our Tampa pain specialists at Tampa pain relief center locations in East Tampa, North Tampa, and Carrollwood are experienced with the effective use of spinal cord stimulation to treat chronic pain. Schedule an appointment today.
