Who Is a Good Candidate for Nerve Pain Stimulation?
A good candidate for nerve pain stimulation, also known as spinal cord stimulation (SCS), is typically someone who suffers from chronic pain that has not responded well to other treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or surgery. Conditions commonly treated with nerve pain stimulation include chronic back pain, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), and nerve pain from conditions like failed back surgery syndrome. Ideal candidates are those who have undergone a thorough evaluation and have not found significant relief from conventional pain management strategies.
Candidates for nerve pain stimulation should also have a positive response to a trial stimulation before undergoing permanent implantation. This trial period helps determine if the therapy will be effective in managing the patient's pain. Additionally, good candidates are those who are in generally good health, with no contraindications such as uncontrolled infections or coagulation disorders. Psychological readiness is also important, as patients need to be motivated and willing to follow the post-procedure care and lifestyle adjustments.
