Refer to this article for all information regarding “Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) for Diabetic Neuropathy”.
Our objective at Texas Pain Care is to provide comprehensive and useful information.
Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes, causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the legs and feet. For many patients, managing this pain can be a challenge, as medications often offer limited relief. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a potential treatment option for diabetic neuropathy, and Nevro, a medical device company, has been at the forefront of research in this area.
High blood sugar from diabetes can damage nerves, leading to diabetic neuropathy. It can affect various body parts, but the most common type is peripheral neuropathy, which impacts the legs and feet. This is because high blood sugars often damage the blood vessels and nerves in the legs and feet as they are the extremities furthest away from the brain and heart.
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a medical treatment that involves implanting a small device near the spine. This device sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord, which can interfere with the nerve signals that cause pain. SCS has been used for several types of chronic pain, and because of this, there has been exploration into its potential for treating diabetic neuropathy.
The SCS device consists of a small pulse generator implanted under the skin and thin wires (electrodes) placed near the spinal cord. The generator sends electrical impulses through the electrodes, which can help mask the pain signals traveling to the brain. Patients can control the stimulation using a remote control, allowing them to adjust the intensity as needed.
Nevro has been a pioneer in SCS, particularly with its high-frequency stimulation technology. Unlike traditional SCS devices, which typically use low-frequency stimulation, Nevro’s devices operate at a higher frequency. This approach has shown promise in providing more effective pain relief for patients with diabetic neuropathy.
These are a few important findings from this research:
Improved Pain Relief: Studies show that patients experience a substantial reduction in pain, often within weeks of starting Nevro’s high-frequency SCS treatment. This improvement can improve quality of life, allowing patients to engage in daily activities with less discomfort.
Enhanced Safety Profile: One concern with any medical device is its safety, and Nevro's research indicates that high-frequency SCS has a favorable safety profile. Complications are rare, and the device is generally well-tolerated by patients. This makes it a viable option for those who have not found relief with other treatments.
Better Neuropathy Symptoms Management: In addition to pain relief, Nevro's SCS technology has been shown to improve other symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. Patients report better sensations in their feet and legs, reduced tingling, and decreased neuropathic discomfort. These benefits can help patients regain some of the functionality lost due to nerve damage.
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Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect when getting an SCS implant:
Initial Assessment: The journey to getting an SCS implant begins with a thorough assessment by a healthcare provider. This typically involves a detailed medical history, a physical examination, and diagnostic tests. The goal is to determine if SCS is a suitable treatment option for the patient's specific condition.
Trial Period: Patients usually go through a trial period before receiving a permanent implant. During this time, a temporary SCS device is used to see if it effectively reduces pain. The trial period allows both the patient and the doctor to evaluate the potential benefits and make an informed decision about proceeding with the permanent implant.
Permanent Implantation: If the trial period is successful, the next step is permanently implanting the SCS device. This outpatient procedure involves placing the pulse generator and electrodes under the skin. Recovery time is usually short, and patients can return to normal activities within a few days.
While Nevro’s research shows promise, SCS is not a one-size-fits-all solution for diabetic neuropathy. Discussing this treatment option with your doctor is important to determine if it suits you. Here are some factors to consider:
Severity of Pain: If your pain is well-controlled with medication or other therapies, SCS might not be necessary. However, if you experience chronic and debilitating pain that impacts your daily life, SCS could be worth exploring.
Overall Health: SCS is a minimally invasive procedure, but it still requires surgery. Underlying health conditions may need to be considered before implantation.
Living with an SCS implant requires some adjustments. Patients must learn how to use the remote control to manage their pain effectively. Regular follow-up appointments are also necessary to check whether the device is working correctly.
Many patients report significant long-term benefits from SCS. The ability to control pain without relying on medications can improve overall health and well-being. Also, the reduction in pain and other neuropathic symptoms can lead to increased mobility and a more active lifestyle.
Nevro continues to explore new frontiers in SCS technology. Ongoing research aims to refine high-frequency stimulation and investigate its potential for other types of neuropathic pain. As the field evolves, patients with diabetic neuropathy may have even more effective treatment options available.
We’re here to help! Visit our pain management clinic at 3550 FM 1092 Rd Suite A, Missouri City, TX 77459, or contact us today to explore our treatment options.
Don’t let Spinal Cord Stimulation for Diabetic Neuropathy pain hold you back—our team at Texas Pain Care is dedicated to finding the right solution for you. We proudly serve patients in Texas, Houston TX, Sugar Land TX, Missouri City TX. Call us today to start your journey toward relief!
Please refer to the following articles for a comprehensive guide on Spinal Cord Stimulation and Diabetic Neuropathy.
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