Project3x5

In the haste, worry and excitement to get this trial on track it seems that I missed a pretty huge piece of the puzzle in never actually explaining properly what the SCS is, does, and how it works to stop the chronic pain that I feel. I’m so sorry!

I think that on some level I assumed many of you would already be informed due to being chronic pain sufferers yourselves. However, to be perfectly honest… as the trial goes on, I’m also beginning to realize how little I really know myself. It’s a bit absurd (!) and while I’m happy with the trial, that’s definitely something that - could I go back in time - I wish could’ve happened differently, so as to prevent being so overwhelmed both physically and mentally. 

So let’s get down to business:

WHAT IS A SPINAL CORD STIMULATOR?

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a procedure that uses an electrical current to treat chronic pain. A small pulse generator, implanted in the back, sends electrical pulses to the spinal cord. These pulses interfere with the nerve impulses that make you feel pain.

AND HOW DOES IT WORK / WHERE DOES IT GO?

Your doctor usually will first insert a trial stimulator to give the treatment a trial run. If the trial is successful, your doctor can implant a more permanent stimulator. The stimulator itself is implanted under the skin of the belly or back, and the small coated wires (leads) are inserted under the skin to the point where they are inserted into the spinal canal. This placement is a more stable, effective location than during the trial. 

After this procedure, you and your doctor determine the best pulse strength and location. You are then told how to use the stimulator at home. The SCS creates a tingling/buzzing/vibration feeling, rather than the pain you have felt in the past.

Those are the basics! The video above is just a little something that I found to visually illustrate what I’m talking about. I hope that the poor girl got the relief that she needed and the Betsey Johnson shoes she wanted!

Thank God for shoes, eh? Gives us all a little something to dream towards.

Have a great week! As always, feel free to email me at theproject3x5@gmail.com if you have questions or want more detailed information on anything. I’m sorry if I take a little while to respond at the moment! If it gets to be too long and you haven’t heard from me, feel free to send a polite reminder! Lots and lots of love. xx

(Video via KHOU Houston) (Article via WebMD)

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