What is neuromodulation?

Neuromodulation is a treatment that uses electrical energy to stimulate nerves sending pain messages to your brain. By sending pulses of energy into these nerves, neuromodulation treatments (which include spinal cord stimulation and peripheral nerve stimulation) can reduce even the most persistent pain.

The treatment requires you to have a small stimulator implanted under your skin. You control the device remotely, changing the energy pulses the unit produces to match the intensity of your symptoms.

When would I need neuromodulation treatment?

Because neuromodulation involves having an implant, it’s not the first option Dr. Patel offers. Initially, he uses conservative methods, such as physical therapy, which many people find is all they need. He follows this with more advanced approaches if your pain doesn’t respond.

Cutting-edge interventional techniques like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and epidural steroid injections are the next steps as is minimally invasive procedures like radiofrequency ablation. However, if nothing else is easing your pain, you might want to consider neuromodulation.

What conditions respond to neuromodulation?

At Sports, Pain & Regenerative Institute, Dr. Patel uses neuromodulation to treat a variety of conditions where the pain is severe and unresponsive to other therapies. Examples include:

Spinal stenosis

Spinal stenosis occurs because changes in your spine cause the spinal canal to narrow. Possible changes include thickened ligaments, bulging or herniated discs, and problems like bone spurs from osteoarthritis. These changes cause nerve compression (radiculopathy), resulting in back or neck pain and other unpleasant symptoms.

Peripheral neuropathy

Nerve damage can result due to peripheral neuropathy, where you experience pain, weakness, and unpleasant tingling sensations in your arms and legs.

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)

CRPS is an unusual condition where an injury or trauma like a stroke causes an arm or leg to become chronically painful and undergo various changes. The effects can spread and are often difficult to treat.

What happens if I have neuromodulation treatment?

The first step when exploring the benefits of neuromodulation is to undergo a trial. This involves having a minimally invasive procedure where Dr. Patel implants one or two wires into the target nerves and attaches them to an external stimulation device.

You try this for a week or so, and if it’s successful, you can undergo the full implantation procedure.

To find out more about neuromodulation and how it can help ease your chronic pain, call Sports, Pain & Regenerative Institute today or book an appointment online.