Neurostimulation is indicated as an aid for management
of chronic, intractable pain of the neck, back, and limbs. Neurostimulation
delivers precisely controlled, mild electrical impulses to the spinal
cord or to a peripheral nerve. Neurostimulation is a proven effective
alternative to repeated back surgery, medication, or other therapies.
Neurostimulation uses a small system that is surgically placed under
the skin to send mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord or
to a peripheral nerve. The electrical impulses are delivered through
a lead that is also surgically placed. These electrical impulses
block the pain signal from reaching the brain.
Because neurostimulation works in the area where pain signals travel,
electrical impulses can be directed to cover specific sites where
you are feeling pain. Neurostimulation can give effective pain relief
and decrease the need for pain medications. In addition, this therapy
is non-destructive. Typically, patients who have success with neurostimulation
experience a 50% greater reduction in their pain and improved ability
to go about daily activities.