Neuromodulation (the alteration of nerve activity through targeted delivery
of a stimulus, such as electrical stimulation or chemical agents, to specific
neurological sites in the body) is a very effective strategy for pain
management. Spinal cord stimulation is a longstanding and widely used
form of Neuromodulation used in the management of refractory chronic pain
– that is, pain that is unresponsive to conservative measures (medications,
therapy, injections, etc.). Stimulator implantation procedures involve
the placement of wire electrodes in the epidural space, on the back side
of the spinal cord. Classic spinal cord stimulation typically produces
paresthesias (a “buzzing” sensation) in the distribution of
the patient’s chronic pain.
The Center for Sports Neurology and Pain Medicines offers a newer, state
of the art form of spinal cord stimulation called
HF10™ Therapy (high-frequency spinal cord stimulation) by Nevro. This new spinal cord
stimulator technology, which stimulates the spinal cord at a higher frequency,
has been a game-changer. It appears to have a completely different mechanism
of action and has been shown to be significantly more effective, with
enduring benefit for a wider range of conditions. Moreover, it has the
benefit of blocking pain signals without any nuisance paresthesias or
buzzing sensation. For the patient, that means they can benefit from pain
relief from the stimulator while driving and/or sleep. This also dramatically
simplifies the trial and implantation process, as the location of electrode
placement does not need to be mapped out intra-operatively. Nevro’s
HF10 Therapy may dramatically reduce or eliminate opioid/narcotic medication
use. It can be used instead of complicated and aggressive spine surgery,
in some cases. And the indications for use in an increasing number of
conditions is being studied with very promising results.