Spinal cord stimulators (SCSs) have revolutionized the way we manage chronic pain. By delivering mild electrical impulses to the spinal cord, these devices can effectively interrupt pain signals, providing relief and improving quality of life for many individuals.
At Pain Specialists of America, we're committed to helping our patients achieve the best possible outcomes with their SCS therapy. Spinal cord stimulators have minimal impact on your daily activities, with almost no permanent restrictions, but it’s important to know how to address any concerns, such as overstimulation.
In this blog post, Dr. Ryan Michaud sheds light on spinal cord stimulator overstimulation. Dr. Michaud is a leading pain management specialist at PSA with extensive expertise in SCS therapy. He practices at our pain management clinic in Seguin. Dr. Michaud has been practicing interventional pain management for over 14 years and has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of SCS in helping patients overcome chronic pain.
"In simple terms," explains Dr. Michaud, "SCS overstimulation is any unpleasant sensation that a patient might experience from their spinal cord stimulator." This can range from tingling or buzzing sensations to feeling stimulation in unintended areas, and in rare cases, even a mild shock-like sensation
Overstimulation can occur for various reasons. In some cases, it may be due to the initial programming of the device, where the electrical current is set too high. However, overstimulation can also develop over time, even after the SCS has been successfully implanted.
"One of the main reasons we used to see overstimulation was due to the older types of SCS systems," says Dr. Michaud. "These systems were more voltage-driven and often caused a tingling or vibrating sensation because of where the leads were placed in the epidural space."
Fortunately, newer SCS systems have addressed this issue. "With the newer sub-threshold systems," Dr. Michaud explains, "patients typically don't experience any tingling or vibration. These systems are more sophisticated and can be adjusted to provide optimal pain relief without causing uncomfortable sensations."
Over time, it's not uncommon for scar tissue to develop around the leads of a spinal cord stimulator. Think of it like the body's natural way of healing and encapsulating a foreign object. This scar tissue, while part of the normal healing process, can sometimes lead to complications. It might compress the leads, changing their position or contact with the nerves.
It can also alter the electrical field generated by the stimulator, making the stimulation less effective or causing it to spread to unintended areas. These changes can lead to uncomfortable sensations or even overstimulation, where the tingling or buzzing feels too intense or occurs in places it shouldn't.
Just as every person is unique, so is the anatomy of their spine. Variations in the epidural space, such as a naturally narrower space or the presence of bone spurs, can affect how the electrical current from a spinal cord stimulator is distributed.
Think of it like electricity flowing through a wire; if the wire is narrower in some places, the current might be more concentrated there. Similarly, in a narrower epidural space or one with bone spurs, the electrical current from the SCS might be more focused, potentially leading to overstimulation in those areas, especially with certain movements or positions that further compress the space.
This is why personalized programming and adjustments are so important to ensure the stimulation is delivered effectively and comfortably for each individual.
A lead is a thin, insulated wire with electrodes at the tip. It's surgically placed in the epidural space (more on that below) near your spinal cord. The lead connects to the pulse generator, which is a small device implanted under your skin, usually in your abdomen or buttock. The pulse generator sends electrical signals through the lead to your spinal cord, which helps to block pain signals.
Think of the lead as an extension cord carrying electricity from the power outlet (the generator) to the appliance (your spinal cord).
The epidural space is the area between the outer covering of your spinal cord (dura mater) and the bones of your spine (vertebrae). It's filled with fat, blood vessels, and nerve roots. This is where an epidural injection is administered, and it's also where the leads for a spinal cord stimulator are placed.
Imagine the epidural space as a protective cushion surrounding your spinal cord.
Placing the leads in the epidural space allows the electrical signals from the SCS to reach the spinal cord effectively, modulating pain signals without directly affecting the spinal cord itself.
Imagine your spinal cord as a highway with pain signals traveling along it. The epidural space is like the roadside next to the highway. The SCS lead is like a device placed on the roadside that emits signals to disrupt traffic (pain signals) on the highway, making the pain less intense or even disappear.
One of the most exciting aspects of spinal cord stimulation is the continuous evolution of technology aimed at improving patient outcomes and minimizing side effects like spinal cord stimulator overstimulation. Modern SCS systems have incorporated several key advancements to enhance the therapy experience.
Closed-loop systems represent a significant leap forward. These intelligent systems constantly monitor the electrical impedance of the tissues surrounding the spinal cord. By sensing changes in impedance, which can occur with movement or changes in body position, the system can automatically adjust the stimulation parameters to maintain optimal therapy. This "feedback loop" helps to prevent overstimulation by ensuring that the electrical current is delivered consistently and effectively, even as your body moves and changes throughout the day.
Another important innovation is sub-threshold stimulation. This technique delivers electrical impulses at a level below your perception threshold, meaning you won't feel any tingling or sensation from the device. While some patients find the tingling sensation helpful, others may find it uncomfortable or distracting. Sub-threshold stimulation offers a paresthesia-free alternative, allowing you to experience pain relief without any noticeable sensation.
Finally, burst and frequency modulation are examples of newer waveforms used in SCS therapy. These waveforms deliver electrical impulses in a more targeted and controlled manner, mimicking the natural patterns of nerve activity. This can result in more effective pain relief while minimizing the risk of overstimulation. These advanced waveforms also allow for greater personalization of therapy, as the stimulation patterns can be tailored to your specific needs and preferences
If you suspect you're experiencing spinal cord stimulator overstimulation, it's crucial to contact your doctor or the PSA care team promptly. "Reprogramming the device is often the first step in addressing overstimulation," says Dr. Michaud. This involves adjusting the device settings to optimize the electrical field and reduce or eliminate uncomfortable sensations.
Your physician and the device representative will work together to manage the SCS device and address any issues like overstimulation. The device rep has specialized knowledge of the device's technology and programming, while your PSA physician understands your overall condition and pain management needs.
Oftentimes, reprogramming can be done remotely using wireless technology. This allows for more convenient adjustments and may reduce the need for in-person appointments.
In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended to help manage any muscle tightness or imbalances that may be contributing to overstimulation. If conservative measures are not effective, surgical intervention may be necessary to reposition the leads or address other underlying issues.
Dr. Michaud emphasizes the importance of open communication between patients and their healthcare providers. "If you're experiencing any unusual sensations or changes in your pain, it's crucial to let your doctor know," he advises. "We're here to help you troubleshoot any issues and ensure your SCS is working effectively."
At PSA, we're committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for all our patients. We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge and support, so they can actively participate in their pain management journey.
While the primary goal of spinal cord stimulation is to reduce pain, many patients experience additional benefits that extend beyond pain relief. Some of these positive effects include:
Improved sleep quality: By reducing pain and promoting relaxation, SCS can help improve sleep patterns, leading to more restful nights and increased energy levels during the day.
Spinal cord stimulation is a valuable tool for managing chronic pain, and overstimulation, while potentially bothersome, is very manageable. With the right adjustments and support, you can treat spinal cord stimulator overstimulation and continue to experience the benefits of SCS therapy to enjoy a more fulfilling life.
It's important to remember that overstimulation is not a common occurrence, especially with newer SCS systems. As Dr. Michaud reassures us, "It can happen, but... that's why your physician and care team is there to help you."
If you have any questions or concerns about your spinal cord stimulator, don't hesitate to contact your PSA care team. We're here to help you every step of the way.
World Spine Day, observed annually on October 16th, serves as a crucial reminder of the global burden of spinal pain and disability. This year's theme, "Support Your Spine," highlights the importance of adopting healthy habits and preventative measures to maintain spinal health throughout life. With low back pain affecting hundreds of millions worldwide and projected to increase, it's imperative that individuals, communities, and doctors collaborate to raise awareness and promote proactive strategies for a healthier spine.
At PSA, we understand the profound impact that spinal pain can have on individuals and society. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive, personalized care that empowers our patients to overcome their pain and reclaim their lives.
Dr. Mehta is a highly accomplished and respected interventional pain specialist with an impressive background. His training at Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Cleveland Clinic has laid the foundation for his expertise in treating chronic pain.
Dr. Mehta is a leading figure in the field of pain management, combining his extensive training, research expertise, and passion for helping patients to provide innovative and effective care. His focus on personalized medicine, minimally invasive techniques, and alternative approaches to chronic pain makes him a valuable resource for those seeking relief from persistent pain conditions.
Dr. Mehta points out that while general aging and degeneration are common culprits behind spinal issues, the specific conditions and their causes can vary depending on age and lifestyle. In younger individuals, poor posture, especially the infamous "text neck," can lead to early-onset back pain. As we age, the spine naturally undergoes wear and tear, with discs losing their shock-absorbing capacity and joints becoming arthritic. It's a "time-based cascade of aging," Dr. Mehta explains.
If you’re an athlete or if degenerative diseases such as arthritis run in the family, you may also be at an increased risk for spinal conditions and back pain.
Dr. Mehta's proximity to Fort Hood in Killeen, the largest Army base in Texas, means he frequently treats patients whose active lifestyles or military service have impacted their spinal health, regardless of age.
Think of your spine as a flexible column made up of individual bones called vertebrae. Between each vertebra are discs, which act as cushions, allowing your spine to bend and twist. Over time, these discs can lose shock absorption and become less flexible, much like a jelly donut going stale. This can lead to pain and stiffness, and in some cases, a herniated disc where the inner part of the disc bulges out and presses on nerves. Additionally, the joints between the vertebrae can wear down, causing friction and discomfort.
At PSA, we understand that every pain in the body originates from the spine, and we're here to address the root causes of your discomfort.
Dr. Mehta stresses that many patients rely on "Dr. Google" and may have misconceptions about why they have back pain or spinal pain. Some common misconceptions include:
It's crucial to seek professional guidance from a qualified spine or pain management specialist to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, it’s critical that patients research their caretakers and find a physician who is willing to solve the root cause, and not just slap a bandaid on the symptoms.
Thankfully, advancements in technology have revolutionized the field of spine care, offering less invasive and more effective treatment options. As Dr. Mehta often hears from patients, "What does a pain management doctor do?" The answer lies in the evolution of the field. Much like cardiology, where procedures have shifted from open-heart surgery to minimally invasive techniques, spine care has also seen a remarkable transformation. Rather than relying solely on medications or steroid injections, at PSA, we are equipped with advanced training and technology to identify and address spinal degeneration early on. This proactive approach allows us to utilize cutting-edge therapies like pain pacemakers, SCS (spinal cord stimulation), and SI joint interventions, providing targeted relief and potentially delaying or even preventing the need for more invasive procedures.
PSA offers a range of treatment options for back and spine pain, including:
Our focus is on providing lower back pain and spinal pain relief through less invasive techniques that target the underlying cause of the pain.
Dr. Mehta emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help when experiencing persistent back pain or other spinal issues. PSA distinguishes itself as a comprehensive spine care provider, acting as the "PCP of the spine." Our team of specialists is trained to evaluate your condition, recommend the appropriate treatment, and guide you through your journey to recovery.
Maintaining good posture, engaging in regular stretching and exercise, and adopting healthy lifestyle choices are vital for supporting your spine. Dr. Mehta encourages everyone to be proactive about their spinal health and avoid falling into the trap of "benign neglect," where minor aches and pains are ignored until they become major problems.
Muscles form a large composition of the body, and if we don’t use them, they will eventually stop working properly and start to hurt. Simple activities like going for walks and stretching for 15-20 minutes a day can make a significant difference in maintaining a healthy spine by supporting the muscular system around the spine and throughout the body.
Additionally, avoiding “text neck” by minimizing time spent looking down at your phone and ensuring a proper workspace can reduce strain on the neck and spine.
On this World Spine Day, Dr. Mehta's message is clear: "You don't have to suffer and live in pain." Seek help early, find an individualized treatment plan, and understand the anatomy of your spine so you can make informed decisions about your health. If you're experiencing back or spine pain, don't hesitate to seek help from a qualified spine specialist near you. At PSA, we are committed to providing cutting-edge therapies and compassionate care to help you achieve a pain-free life.
Remember: Don't let pain control your life. Reach out to a PSA pain specialist near you and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you.
A creeping pain beginning in your lumbar or buttock area and running down the backs of your legs could mean problems with your sciatic nerve
With an estimated 40 percent of individuals experiencing lumbar radiculopathy at some point in their lives, it’s likely that you or someone you know has experienced or is experiencing this debilitating issue. Although familiar, many people still don’t fully understand what causes lumbar radiculopathy, how to identify it and the best ways to reduce its impact on our daily lives.
What is lumbar radiculopathy or sciatica and how do I know if I have it?
Lumbar radiculopathy, sometimes referred to as sciatica, is the irritation or inflammation of the sciatic nerve, which originates from the lower lumbar areas of our backs and branch out to the buttocks and backs of our legs. The sciatic nerve plays a vital role in controlling muscles and sensations in the lower body and is the longest and widest nerve in the human body.
Lumbar radiculopathy commonly occurs in people between the ages of 30 and 50 years. It is most often associated with a shooting or radiating sensation of pain beginning in the lower back and traveling down one leg or both. This is a crucial differentiator between sciatica and other kinds of pack pain, which often do not affect the legs. Often, patients with sciatica will describe the pain as dull, aching or even burning, with some also experiencing tingling and weakness.
Even if you are experiencing these symptoms, a doctor’s assessment is needed to diagnose the condition properly. Your doctor will typically evaluate your medical history and conduct a physical exam and may even request additional tests like x-rays, an MRI or a nerve conduction study to diagnose lumbar radiculopathy effectively.
What treatments are available?
Given proper rest, lumbar radiculopathy symptoms typically dissipate in a few days or weeks without the need for medical intervention. For those with persistent pain, there are several ways to relieve this and promote the healing process. They include:
What are the causes?
In most cases, lumbar radiculopathy is caused by:
lumbar radiculopathy or sciatica and Winter Weather
With Texas recently experiencing a blast of unprecedented winter weather, an increasing number of individuals may now be experiencing lumbar radiculopathy for the first time or dealing with worsening sciatic pain. It is commonly believed that lumbar radiculopathy is compounded by cold and although this may seem like an old wive’s tale, there’s evidence that this may be the case.
Cold weather and everyday activities required while living in cold environments can dramatically impact pain – including pain caused by sciatica. Reasons pain could increase during cold snaps include:
As discussed, rest and typical household pain remedies can effectively manage minor onset lumbar radiculopathy; however, for many medical interventions may be required. If you are experiencing debilitating sciatic pain, our pain management experts are available for patient consultations.
During the holidays, our heads often are filled with thoughts of gifts we can give to others to make them happy and improve their lives in ways both small and large. This year, we’re thinking especially of sufferers of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) and recommending the perfect gift they can give to themselves.
That gift is a minimally invasive procedure and scheduling it soon can bring a New Year of reduced pain and greater activity.
Spinal stenosis is the result of aging and “wear and tear” on the spine from everyday activities. These changes cause the spinal canal to narrow, which can “pinch” the nerves in the lower back and may cause pain and/or nerve damage. This is called Lumbar Spinal Stenosis.
The symptoms are many and each is an impediment to living one’s best life. They include:
One of our more popular options is VERTIFLEX®, a small implant, available in different sizes to best match the individual’s spinal anatomy. It is made of titanium, a material used for medical implants because it is lightweight with great strength. Titanium is biocompatible and reduces the risk of inflammation or rejection.
Placing the VERTIFLEX® typically takes about 30 minutes. It is implanted through a small incision in the lower back. The procedure can be performed in an outpatient surgical center and involves no tissue or bone damage and minimal blood.
After the procedure, the patient may enjoy a significant reduction in leg pain within the first few days. All post-operative care instructions should be prescribed by the physician. The doctor also will talk about limiting activity levels immediately after the procedure and how to increase activities as the healing process continues.
It’s a proven means of mitigating the pain. It’s also the best thing sufferers can do for themselves or encourage their loved ones to do. Get back to the small things in life that matter!
Studies show that 80 percent of people will experience back pain at some point in their lives. While that number is striking, what is more interesting is how many of us accept that pain is part of growing older and that there's nothing we can do about it.
It's true that there are many causes for back pain, and some of them happen with age. A narrowing of the spinal column known as spinal stenosis is one example. Arthritis, SI joint pain, and degenerative disc disease are all conditions that are more common as we get older, but none of them mean that you have to live your life in pain.
At Pain Specialists of Austin and Central Texas Pain Center, we take a different approach to treating pain. Instead of focusing only on the pain itself, we want to start by figuring out why the pain is happening. Once we have determined the cause, then we can help you find pain relief through many different interventional modalities.
You've probably heard the phrase "it's a symptom of a greater problem." We can say the same about pain. Once we identify the source of what is causing your pain, we sometimes have to attack the problem from many directions. This is what we call a comprehensive approach to pain management.
It starts by having an accurate diagnosis. To get there, your Pain Specialist will get an in-depth history, perform tests, and get accurate imaging of the painful area. Armed with that information, they can then not only give you a diagnosis, but they can also recommend a course of treatment.
We create an individualized plan that is as unique as you are. Your plan might include counseling, physical therapy, minimally-invasive treatments, or a combination of all of the above. Finding the right plan is core to relieving your pain, and your Pain Specialist will work with you to ensure that it’s done the right way.
We know that not every treatment works for every patient. That’s why we employ a broad range of options from time-tested classic interventions like injections, all the way to cutting edge minimally-invasive treatments like Kyphoplasty and spinal cord stimulation.
Maybe you’ve tried treatments in the past without success. Maybe you’ve even gone so far as to have a surgery that didn’t work. When these things happen, it can be easy to lose hope. But as many of our patients will tell you, you can get your life back. Call us today at 855-876-PAIN (7246) or visit PSADocs.com to get started.
Eighty percent of all Americans will experience low back pain in some point in their lives. Back pain can be disabling. It can be the result of injury, as well as illness. At Central Texas Pain Center, we provide treatment that is customized to your individual needs. Whether your pain is sharp, constant -- or if you have weakness, numbness, or tingling in your legs -- we can help.
Changes in your body come with aging, as well as with general wear and tear. These factors can make it very hard on your ligaments to keep your spine in shape. But back pain can impact people of all ages -- it's the third most common reason that people see a physician. We determine your diagnosis based on a thorough examination as well as testing. The sooner we can begin, the sooner you can get relief and get back to your everyday activities.
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Your back takes a lot of impacts and is an essential part of your daily life. In between each vertebra are your discs, which are there to help ease any impacts. They provide height, allow bending, flexion, and twisting. Think of them as the spines' shock absorbers.
As we age, our discs begin to shrink, causing more wear and tear. In some cases, this can be more severe and lead to back pain and stiffness, often caused by other underlying issues. If you are currently living with back pain from degenerative disc disease, here’s what you should know:
Everyone will experience some level of degeneration over time. As you age, your discs will begin to dry out, losing their ability to absorb shock. Daily movement and physical activities such as sports, can lead to tears in the outer core. An injury can lead to instability, swelling, and soreness.
As the condition develops, certain complications can come along, such as:
Also, your disc center can weaken, the nucleus of your disc collapses, and bone spurs can form. Early treatment is vital to reduce further damage.
Your symptoms all depend on where the degenerated disc(s) are located. For some, it can be in the lower back, others the neck. Lower back pain can travel from the lower back to the buttocks and thighs. Neck pain can travel and radiate to your arms and hands. For others, it can worsen when you sit or do specific activities.
Pain may come and go; it may be nagging or severe. All of these depend on the damage that has occurred and the location of the degeneration.
The first step in diagnosing degenerative disc disease is to have a physical exam and a full review of your medical history. You will be asked to describe your pain and when it began to occur. An MRI might be scheduled to see the damage of the discs.
With proper treatment, the source of the pain can often repair itself. Treatment might include anti-inflammatory drugs, chiropractic care, and therapy. For some instances, traction or injections may be prescribed. If all non-invasive measures have been exhausted without any improvement, surgery may be necessary.
Degenerative disc disease, though natural, can often be a significant source of chronic pain. We are dedicated to helping you reduce your pain, and get back your quality of life. Call us today at (855) 876-7246 to make an appointment to discuss treatment options. You can also fill out our convenient appointment request form.
As we age, our bodies begin to feel the effects of years of wear and tear – as well as pure age-related degeneration. A perfect example is what happens if or when the spinal canal narrows. This puts pressure on the nerves that it is designed to protect. This narrowing of the spinal canal is what is known as spinal stenosis. The condition causes pain, numbness, and muscle weakness either in your neck (cervical stenosis) or lower back (lumbar stenosis). It can also cause difficulty when walking and maintaining your balance.
Not only that, but in severe cases, spinal stenosis can also impair your bladder and bowel control. If your spinal stenosis is in the lower back – the most common kind of stenosis – you may experience pain and cramping in one or both of your legs when you stand for long periods of time.
There are numerous causes of spinal stenosis, such as:
Fortunately, there’s a variety of treatment options for those diagnosed with spinal stenosis. These include both nonsurgical and surgical alternatives; treatment is based on the cause and severity of your condition, as well as your medical history.
Classic film star Bette Davis once said, “Old age ain’t no place for sissies.” Boy, was she right.
As we age, our bodies change and, if we’re lucky, we only develop minor aches and pains. But if you’re not that fortunate, you can develop more painful physical problems, one being lumbar stenosis.
Lumbar stenosis occurs when the vertebrae (bones), muscles and ligaments that make up the spinal column start to degenerate and the nerves in the lower back become compressed by a bulging disc, a herniated disc, a bone spur or other protrusion.
This condition often leads to symptoms such as sciatica (leg pain); claudication (leg pain with walking); or a tingling sensation, weakness or numbness that radiates from the lower back into the buttocks and legs. As these symptoms worsen, they may become debilitating.
The good news, however, is that there are multiple non-surgical and surgical options to treat lumbar stenosis. These include:
Medication – As recommended by your doctor, anti-inflammatory medications such pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB), naproxen (Aleve), and acetaminophen (Tylenol) can temporarily ease the discomfort of spinal stenosis. On a longer-term basis, antidepressants, such as amitriptyline and anti-seizure drugs like Neurontin and Lyrica, can help reduce pain caused by damaged nerves.
Physical therapy – It’s a vicious cycle: there is a tendency among spinal stenosis sufferers to become less active to reduce their pain but that can lead to muscle weakness and even more pain. Instead, a physical therapist can introduce you to exercises aimed at enhancing the flexibility and stability of your spine, building strength and endurance, and improving your balance.
Steroid injections – Pinched nerve roots can become irritated and swollen in specific spots. Although injecting corticosteroids into that affected area won’t resolve the stenosis, it can help reduce the pain and inflammation. A word of caution, however; reliance on or receiving repeated steroid injections is known to weaken nearby bones and connective tissue. Steroid injections should not be your “go to” cure to treat lumbar stenosis.
Integrative medicine and alternative therapies – such as massage therapy, chiropractic treatment, and acupuncture – may also be used along with conventional treatments to help you manage your spinal stenosis pain.
If these conservative measures fail to relieve your lumbar stenosis, there are minimally invasive procedures for you and your doctor to consider, one of which is a decompression procedure in which portions of the affected ligament in the back of your spinal column are removed. This increases spinal canal space and eliminates nerve root impingement.
If other treatments are ineffective or if you’re disabled due to your symptom, you may want to consider surgery. In fact, surgery is often the most effective way to resolve spinal stenosis symptoms. Examples of spinal stenosis surgical procedures include:
Laminectomy, which involves the removal of the back part (lamina) of the affected vertebra to ease pressure on the nerves. To maintain the spine’s strength, the vertebra may need to be linked to adjoining vertebrae using metal hardware and a bone graft.
Laminotomy, a procedure in which only a portion of the lamina is removed.
Laminoplasty. Performed on the vertebrae in the neck a laminoplasty opens up open spaces within the spinal canal to allow for placement around the spine of metal hardware to relieve pressure and pain.
Don’t let back pain slow you down. If you’re interested in or have questions about any of these treatment options, discuss them with your doctor. The doctors at Pain Specialists of Austin are dedicated to providing the pain solutions that are crucial to getting you back on your feet and doing the activities you love. To learn more about lumbar stenosis treatment options, and our pain management methods, call (855) 876-7246 for an appointment today. We have 10 convenient locations in and around Austin, Texas. You can also request an appointment online.
The back pain resulting from spinal degeneration can get so bad that even simple movements become major ordeals. Participating in family outings can be a chore, even bending to tie your shoes may be off-limits. When you start changing your day to day life to adapt to debilitating back pain, it’s time to seek treatment.
Traditional treatments focus on reducing painful symptoms, but many patients are looking to stem cell treatment to not just stop further degeneration, but also to restore healthy tissue (cartilage) in your spinal discs. Stem cell research continues to validate the use of stem cells for treating a variety of health issues, and musculoskeletal problems are one of the main areas of focus.
The use of regenerative medicine (either platelet-rich plasma or stem cell treatment) for treating painful musculoskeletal conditions continues to gain traction. Ongoing clinical trials are looking at what works and what doesn’t, and if there might be any long-term drawbacks to treatment. Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision about any treatments that are not currently approved by the FDA.
Our spine ages just like everything else in the human body. After years of continued physical activity, cumulative trauma, weight gain, and even smoking, can cause cartilage in spinal discs to degenerate rapidly. Symptoms of spine degeneration include pain that is often made worse by movement, and numbness, tingling or weakness in your legs or arms.
Once damage has begun, it can extend to other discs, too. The spine is an intricately designed support structure, so when one area breaks down it can affect the whole thing. Current treatments are not curative – painkillers and spinal fusion surgery both have limits and drawbacks. Most significantly, none of these currently approved treatments stops the progress of spine degeneration or heals or restores the discs.
Stem cells make up the building blocks of our organs and vessels. All parts of our body started out as stem cells. These non-differentiated cells have the ability to replicate repeatedly and to morph into specialized types of cells.
Stem cells that are found in our adult bodies (as opposed to embryonic stem cells) are multipotent. This means they can transform into a number of different types of cells in specific organs or areas of the body. It’s important to note that our stem cells also change as we age.
The hope is that adult stem cells once placed into the spinal disc will transform themselves into functioning cartilage. This means fresh cells, restored discs, and a cure for the degenerative disease. When injected into areas that have been ravaged by injury or degeneration, they present an opportunity for new cell and tissue growth.
There are available stem cell treatments today but it’s important that you ask questions about possible side effects, or about whether or not your particular procedure has been approved by the FDA. Here are some questions you may want to ask:
Because this is a new procedure, there are not many long-term studies about the possible long-term complications associated with receiving stem cell injections in the spinal discs.
PRP or platelet-rich plasma therapy has been successfully used for patients with spine degeneration. Like with stem cell therapy, the patient’s own cells (blood cells in this case) are sampled, treated, and then injected into the area that needs treatment. The platelets contain growth factors that can promote healing and reduce inflammation. Like any new therapy, ask about whether the procedure is “off label”, meaning it is done outside of officially approved treatments, and what that means for you.
One thing is clear: there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to diagnosing chronic pain. Pain Specialists of Austin offers a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment. If you have any type of pain, call (855) 876-7246 for an appointment today. We have 10 convenient locations in the Austin, Texas area, and you can also request an appointment online.