Living with chronic pain can be exhausting, especially when treatments fall short of providing relief. If you’re looking for a long-term solution, spinal cord stimulation may offer a path forward. At Horizon Treatment Center, we provide evaluations to determine if spinal cord stimulation is the best option for managing your pain. Keep reading to find out what a spinal cord stimulator is, the evaluation process, and how it can transform your quality of life.
A spinal cord stimulator manages chronic pain by interrupting pain signals before they reach the brain. It works by sending electrical impulses to the spinal cord, which modifies how the brain perceives pain. For many patients, this technology has proven to be a life-changing option when other treatments, like medications or physical therapy, haven’t provided sufficient relief. Spinal cord stimulators are used for conditions such as:
The device is implanted during a minimally invasive procedure, but before reaching that stage, a thorough evaluation is required to determine whether SCS is appropriate for your condition. This careful process makes sure that the treatment is effective and aligned with your goals.
At Horizon Treatment Center, we take a patient-centered approach, so you receive the most effective care for your needs. Here is an in-depth look at each step of the process:
Your first step is an in-depth consultation with our pain management specialists. During this visit, we’ll:
Additional tests might need to be performed to determine your suitability for SCS better. These may include imaging studies, like MRIs or X-rays, to pinpoint the source of your pain and rule out other conditions that could affect treatment outcomes.
Chronic pain can take a toll on mental health, so a psychological evaluation is an important part of the SCS evaluation process. This assessment confirms that you’re emotionally prepared for the treatment and helps identify psychological factors that may influence your experience with the device.
Before committing to permanent implantation, you’ll undergo a trial period where a temporary spinal cord stimulator is placed. This allows you to experience the effects of the device and determine whether it provides meaningful pain relief. During this time, our team will closely monitor your progress and adjust settings as needed to optimize the trial results.
Throughout the evaluation, our team maintains open communication and discusses your questions so you are fully informed about each step. Transparency is an important part of our care philosophy.
For those who are good candidates, spinal cord stimulation can provide valuable benefits. Here are some of the advantages:
Successful pain management also requires a dedicated team that can provide holistic care that focuses on the physical and emotional aspects of living with chronic pain.
Throughout the evaluation and treatment process, we always encourage open communication and shared decision-making. Working together will ensure that your treatment stays aligned with your goals and preferences because your voice matters, and we value your input in shaping your care plan.
We provide ongoing support to help you adapt to the device, troubleshoot any issues, and optimize its performance. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way so you feel confident and comfortable with your treatment. Regular follow-ups allow us to monitor progress and resolve any concerns.
Our team integrates mental health support into our care model to help patients overcome the emotional challenges that can accompany long-term pain. Whether through counseling or stress management resources, we’re here to support your overall well-being so that you receive care that attends to the full spectrum of your needs.
We provide educational resources to help you understand your condition, the role of SCS, and strategies for maintaining long-term relief. An informed patient is better equipped to achieve success.
Deciding whether to pursue spinal cord stimulation is a deeply personal choice. Our team can provide the information, guidance, and support you need to make an informed decision. We make sure you fully understand the potential benefits, risks, and expectations associated with SCS. If you’re ready to find out whether SCS could be the solution you’ve been searching for, contact us today to schedule your evaluation.
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