Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) Treatments in New Jersey and Pennsylvania
If you are struggling with receiving pain relief from surgery and medication after a spine injury, consider spinal cord stimulation (SCS). This type of nerve stimulation therapy is an option for chronic pain relief. At Premier Med Group, we can help those seeking compassionate pain management in New Jersey.
Reclaim Your Life with Nearby PRP Injections
Discover the benefits of PRP injections, a regenerative therapy that triggers your body’s innate healing mechanisms. PRP, or Platelet Rich Plasma, is rich in growth factors that promote the growth of new cells and the elimination of old ones. PRP therapy can effectively treat various conditions, such as injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and chronic pain. If you are experiencing joint pain, our PRP injections in New Jersey and Pennsylvania can relieve your need.
Plasma
The fluid component of blood, known as plasma, serves as a transportation system for red and white blood cells and platelets throughout your circulatory system.
PRP
Platelets are essential for blood clotting and healing. A specialized centrifuge is necessary to extract platelets from your blood and produce PRP, which is vital for obtaining the healing benefits.
What Is Spinal Cord Stimulation?
Spinal cord stimulation is a non-medication approach to treating chronic pain. It uses technology and design that’s similar to a pacemaker. Doctors will insert a small pulse generator, called a spinal cord stimulator, just under the skin. This device sends electrical pulses through wires to leads located near the spinal cord. The pulses attempt to interrupt or block pain signals before they reach the brain.
The tiny stimulator, which is about the size of a matchbook, contains the battery needed to create the electrical impulses. The battery can last two to five years for a non-rechargeable system or for up to 25 years for a rechargeable system. Some models even come with a remote control, allowing patients to adjust the frequency and intensity of the stimulation.
Symptoms That Spinal Cord Stimulation Can Help With
According to the Cleveland Clinic, spinal cord stimulation can help with multiple kinds of pain related to:
- Back and spinal injuries and conditions
- Neck injuries and conditions
- Nerve problems
- Post-amputation complications
- Complex regional pain syndrome
Neck and back pain are among the most common conditions for which doctors may use SCS.
SCS and Back Pain
According to a study published by Pain Physician, more than 40% of American adults suffer from chronic pain. Spinal pain is one of the most common types of chronic pain. According to the book Pain and Disability: Clinical, Behavioral, and Public Policy Perspectives, chronic back and spinal pain lead to work disability for 10-15% of American adults during any year.
When treating back pain with the SCS device, doctors will implant the stimulator just under the skin. The doctors place the leads that send out the electrical impulses near the spinal cord.
SCS and Neck Pain
When you want to alleviate some of the most common causes of neck pain, SCS is worth trying. Neck pain affects more than 200 million people globally at any particular time, according to a study published by The Lancet Rheumatology.
Doctors still implant the stimulator just under the skin when dealing with neck discomfort. To treat neck pain specifically, doctors may place the leads for the device closer to the spinal cord in the neck.
What To Expect with a Spinal Cord Stimulation Implantation
Some people struggle with when to seek help from a pain management specialist for back pain. When you aren’t receiving relief from your back pain with over-the-counter treatments or the pain has been ongoing for a few months, it’s time to consider seeking help.
Don’t expect to receive an SCS implementation on your first visit. Doctors will need to study your condition and determine whether the stimulator is the best option for you. If doctors decide to implant a spinal cord stimulator, you’ll go through a series of steps to prepare for the surgery.
Preparation for an SCS Implant
Your doctor may recommend that you stop taking certain medications to prepare for SCS surgery.
You will undergo sedation or general anesthesia for this type of operation, and your doctor will give you instructions to prepare for it. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations.
A Trial Period for SCS Implant Surgery
Many times, doctors will require a trial procedure for the SCS device. During the trial procedure, you’ll have temporary leads inserted into the epidural space near the spinal cord. The other end of the wire will remain outside the skin. The doctor will attach the wire to an external stimulator and run a series of tests to try to block your pain. The trial period may last between a few days and a few weeks. If the trial works, the doctor may authorize the permanent implantation of the stimulator.
The Full SCS Implant Surgery
After a successful trial, doctors will schedule you for the permanent implantation surgery. The doctor will make an incision over the spine and typically place the leads in the same location as the temporary trial leads. When implanting the stimulator with the battery, doctors usually place it in the buttocks or along the side of the waist. Once they close the incision, the SCS device should be ready to use.
Trust Us for Help with Pain Management in Pennsylvania and New Jersey
At Premier Med Group, we have experience with pain management in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. We can provide spinal cord stimulation and other treatments for your pain conditions.
The doctors listed in our directory accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available. For more information or to set up an appointment, call us today at (908) 904-1900.
Which medical conditions can PRP injections treat?
(PRP) injections address a wide range of conditions. Whether you have arthritis, low back pain, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, rotator cuff injuries, sports-related injuries, strains, or fractures, PRP treatments offer a promising solution.
PRP injections accelerate healing, providing a safe alternative to surgical interventions. Experience long-lasting results that enhance your quality of life in the long term. Please consult with our pain specialists to explore the potential benefits of PRP injections for your specific condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
A spinal cord stimulator sends low-level electrical impulses to the spinal cord. Ideally, this technique would interrupt pain signals and sensory feedback from the nervous system to the brain.
Implanting a spinal cord stimulator is not a major surgical procedure, as it often occurs on an outpatient basis. The surgical process usually takes one to two hours.
After getting a spinal cord stimulator implant, you’ll need to limit certain activities to allow your body to heal and prevent dislodging the electrodes:
- Physical activity: Avoid strenuous exercise, bending, twisting, lifting, and stretching. You should also avoid raising your arms above your head if new leads are implanted.
- Driving: Don’t drive with the stimulator turned on.
- Lifting: For at least the first two weeks, don’t lift anything heavier than five pounds.
- Blood thinners: your doctor will discuss when to restart after the SCS implantation at the time of discharge.
- Sudden movements: Avoid making any sudden movements.
- Changing positions: Use caution when changing positions, like logging in and out of bed.
Your doctor will provide specific guidelines and let you know when you can gradually reintroduce activities. You should be able to enjoy the same activities and quality of life you had before the device implantation.
You should also always carry a medical card with you to note that you have a spinal cord stimulator implant. You’ll need to carry this card with you when flying, as your device may show up on airport scanners.
The success rate for spinal cord stimulation as spinal cord therapy is high. According to Healthcare Business Today, spinal cord stimulation has a success rate of 80%, offering many patients long-term relief.
How may we assist you?
We are here to assist you in getting the care you need. Please provide us with your contact information, and we will reach out to help you schedule an appointment, verify your insurance coverage, or answer any questions you may have. Our top priorities are your health and well-being.
How may we assist you?
Find Your Nearest Clinic
Locate one of our clinics near you and prioritize your health today. Our top-rated medical centers offer multiple services and convenient locations to provide patients with needed care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Find Your Nearest Clinic
Locate one of our clinics near you and prioritize your health today. Our top-rated medical centers offer multiple services and convenient locations to provide patients with needed care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
