Study Shows Effectiveness Of Spinal Cord Stimulation

A study in the New England Journal of Medicine reflects Dr. Nikesh Seth’s understanding of spinal cord stimulation as a highly effective means of pain management. The study specifically looked at spinal cord stimulation to treat chronic reflex sympathetic dystrophy, also known as complex regional pain syndrome. The researchers noted that the painful condition has no mainstream cure, and wanted to see if spinal cord stimulation was an effective means of treatment.

The study included a randomized trial of patients with the condition and spanned a six-month period. In total, 36 patients received spinal cord stimulation with physical therapy, while 18 received only physical therapy. First, a test stimulation took place. During these tests, 24 patients enjoyed pain relief. The remaining 12 were not considered good candidates for spinal cord stimulation. Such tests are mirrored in pain management centers as part of the process to determine best pain management techniques for each patient.

After six months, participants who received spinal cord stimulation plus physical therapy reported an average pain reduction of 2.4 centimeters. Those who received only physical therapy had an increase in pain intensity of 0.2 centimeters on average. Those who received spinal cord stimulation ranked their pain as “much improved” on a much wider scale than anyone in the control group. Plus, those who received spinal cord stimulation reported a much-improved quality of life.

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Researchers concluded that patients who benefit from spinal cord stimulation can enjoy reduced pain and better quality of life. However, for those who are not good candidates for spinal cord stimulation, know that there are other options available. Spinal cord stimulation is just one means of treating back pain. There are also joint injections, ketamine infusions, and other alternative treatment solutions. Contact Integrated Pain Consultants today to find out more about spinal cord stimulation and additional treatments.